Hospitaler Knight's Order of Saint John

The early cross given to the Hospitaler Knight's by Pope Innocent II in 1130 a.d. The order originally cared for pilgrims en route to the Holy Land and provided armed escort. The infirmary and hospice services expanded in the twelfth century. Around 1200 a.d., the order developed three segments: the military brothers, the brothers infirmarian, and the brothers chaplain. Each with their own focus.