First Degree
Foundation of membership in the Noble Order
The First Degree is the gateway into the Knights of St. John International — conferred upon admittance and initiation into the Noble Order with reverence, instruction, and solemn obligation.
Prospective members are reviewed by the commandery Screening Committee and endorsed by the membership. Upon approval, the candidate is presented at a General Membership Meeting and prepared for initiation.
The ceremonial conferral is conducted with confidentiality and dignity — including formation in the Order's heritage, the oath of allegiance, and the sacred traditions that bind knights across Ghana and the world.
Gates of Advancement
Practising Roman Catholic gentleman of good character
Endorsed by commandery Screening Committee and membership vote
Sponsored by an active knight in good standing
Prepared for initiation at a scheduled membership meeting
Formation & Ceremony
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Rite 01 Screening
Commandery reviews the candidate's suitability for membership.
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Rite 02 Endorsement
Membership votes to welcome the candidate to initiation.
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Rite 03 Instruction
Formation in ideals, history, and obligations of the Order.
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Rite 04 Initiation
Solemn conferral of the First Degree in ceremony.
What this degree calls forth
- Understanding KSJI history, structure, and Catholic identity
- Oath of allegiance and fraternal obligations
- Introduction to regalia, drill, and parish service
- Commitment to faith, hope, charity, and fraternity
Ready for exemplification?
Degree schedules and exemplification dates are announced through commanderies, auxiliaries, and the Grand Secretariat.
