The Knights of St. John International (KSJI) and Ladies’ Auxiliary, Sierra Leone, successfully concluded their 4th Biennial Supreme Subordinate Commandery Convention and the 1st Biennial Convention of the Supreme Subordinate Ladies’ Auxiliary, held from 6th to 9th November 2025 in Kenema. The historic gathering, hosted at the Pastoral Centre and Holy Trinity Hall, was themed: “Knights and Ladies as Pilgrims of Hope in a Spiritual Journey of Reconciliation, Renewal and Commitment to Living Out the Gospel.”
The four-day convention brought together members from across the country for a period of spiritual reflection, renewal, leadership transition and fraternity. Proceedings commenced on Friday with a Holy Mass at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, followed by courtesy visits to the Resident Minister East, senior Government officials and the Assistant Inspector General of Police.
On Saturday, a solemn Memorial Mass was held in honour of departed members of the Noble Order, followed by the official opening ceremony. Representing His Lordship, the Bishop of Kenema Diocese, Rev. Fr. Dr. John Nat Tucker delivered the keynote address, calling on members to remain “bold yet gentle in faith, courageous and compassionate in action,” and to emulate the love of Christ in their service as pilgrims of hope.
In his farewell address, outgoing Supreme Subordinate President, Major General Gerald H.P. Ganda, reflected on his 24 years of distinguished service to the Order. He expressed deep appreciation for the trust and cooperation extended to him during his tenure and urged future leaders to promote unity, inclusivity, and collaboration within the Order and the Church. He announced his transition to the role of Supreme Trustee, becoming the first Sierra Leonean to hold the position and assured members of his continued support.
A major highlight of the convention was the peaceful election and installation of new officers to lead the Supreme Subordinate Commandery and Ladies’ Auxiliary for the next biennium. Major General Justice John Bosco Allieu and Noble Sister Victoria Kumba Amara were installed as Presidents of the Supreme Subordinate Commandery and Ladies’ Auxiliary, respectively.
The convention climaxed on Sunday with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Henry Aruna, Bishop of Kenema. In his homily, Bishop Aruna congratulated the newly elected leaders and commended the outgoing officers for their outstanding service to both the Order and the Catholic Church. He reminded members of the KSJI’s noble history, noting that the organization was founded in the United States shortly after the American Civil War (1861–1865) and formally incorporated in 1886 by the State of New York as a legitimate body of the Catholic Church.
He urged members to remain steadfast in faith and service, preserving the dignity, honour and nobility of the Knights of St. John International and Ladies’ Auxiliary.
The event concluded with a colourful march-past and a post-Mass social gathering, which provided members with an opportunity to celebrate their collective achievements. The Order reaffirmed its enduring mission of faith, unity and service; continuing its spiritual journey of reconciliation, renewal and commitment to living out the Gospel as true pilgrims of hope.
