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Message of Felicitation on the Feast of St. John the Baptist 2026

By Noble Sister Antonia Amaka Umeokeke

Grand Respected President, Abuja Grand Commandery

My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is with great joy and gratitude to God that I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to all members of the Knights of St. John International and Ladies Auxiliary around the world as we celebrate the Feast of our Patron Saint, St. John the Baptist, on 23rd June 2026.

The Knights of St. John International, incorporated in New York in 1868, was established under the patronage of St. John the Baptist, a tradition that continues to guide and inspire our noble Order to this day. The choice of St. John the Baptist as our Patron Saint was not accidental. His life was marked by deep spirituality, unwavering faith, humility, and a total commitment to God's mission. He prepared the way for the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ, calling people to repentance and boldly proclaiming the arrival of the Messiah.

As members of this noble Order, the life of St. John the Baptist challenges us to be courageous and fearless witnesses of the Gospel. He teaches us to stand firmly for truth and justice, regardless of the circumstances or consequences. His example reminds us that true leadership is rooted in service, integrity, and fidelity to God's will.

St. John the Baptist also exemplified a life of simplicity and selflessness. He placed the welfare of God's people above personal interests and earthly comforts. In a world increasingly driven by self-interest, his life calls us to put the needs of our communities, our Church, and our society above personal gain. As Knights and Ladies, we must continually strive to emulate these virtues in our daily lives.

As we celebrate this great feast, I pray that the example and intercession of our Patron Saint will inspire us to renew our commitment to the ideals of our noble Order—Charity, Fraternity, Unity, Peace, and Evangelization. May this celebration deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our resolve to serve Him faithfully through prayer, service, and Christian witness.

I also pray that we may continue to be instruments of hope, unity, and faith in our families, parishes, communities, and society. May we remain steadfast in promoting Catholic teachings and preserving the sacred traditions and doctrines of the Church entrusted to our care.

As we honour St. John the Baptist, may his life encourage us to pursue holiness, live with integrity, and dedicate ourselves to the service of God and humanity. May his courage strengthen us, his humility inspire us, and his faith guide us in all that we do.

On behalf of the Ladies Auxiliary of Abuja Grand Commandery, I wish all Knights, Ladies, and their families a joyful, peaceful, and grace-filled Feast of St. John the Baptist.

May God bless you all abundantly, and may St. John the Baptist continue to intercede for us.

Happy Feast Day!

Noble Sister Antonia Amaka Umeokeke

Grand Respected President

Abuja Grand Commandery

Ladies Auxiliary, Knights of St. John International