Red banner with white text that reads "Pilgrimage" and two location markers connected by a dotted line, each marker containing a shell symbol.
A silhouette of a person with a donkey on a mountain peak, pointing at something in the distance, with a backdrop of layered mountain ranges and misty sky.

After making a pilgrimage, members of the Order are awarded a Pilgrim Shell.  There are three types of shells: Bronze (having visited one site), Silver (having visited two sites), and Gold (having visited three or more sites). A pilgrimage to any site in Israel automatically qualifies for the Gold shell.

Once the member has completed their pilgrimage, they may apply for their shell. They should mail a written submission with supporting photographs to the Pilgrimmaster General of the Order:

KCdr John Vanthournout 158 Martin Drive Belle River, Ontario N0R1A0 johnvant@sympatico.ca   

The Pilgrimmaster will send a letter of approval to the applicant and to the Director General of Insignia. At this point, the member may purchase their approved shell. Visit the Kit Shop to learn about purchasing your shell.

HOSJ members interested in planning a group pilgrimage should coordinate with the Pilgrimmaster to ensure all commanderies work together for maximum attendance and benefit.

A Pilgrimage is a journey and rite of passage undertaken by a member of the Order to locations around the globe that hold deep meaning for the Order.  The pilgrim pays homage by their presence, prayer, and thanksgiving for the life and actions of others. Learn more about this process.

How to wear the shell:

Only one shell (the most senior) is worn by the recipient, and it is only worn on formal/black tie attire.

The Pilgrim Shell of the Order is a metal representation of a scallop shell in bronze, silver, or gold, on which is superimposed a small white enameled Maltese cross. The shell is worn on the right side approximately 6” above the waist for men, 3” for women, only with full dress, evening dress, or service equivalent. 

Three metallic shell-shaped objects with star designs on the top, arranged in a row on a white background.

History of the Pilgrimage: 

During the time of the crusades, a young man was customarily sent to seek out the holy places. Sometimes he did so voluntarily.

A pilgrim intended to walk and visit locations where Christ our Lord might have been. Such a journey was difficult and arduous. Many became sick or died before their mission was completed.

Since medieval times, the scallop shell has been the symbol of Christian pilgrimage. As pilgrims had to travel lightly, the shell served as both a cup and a plate on the journey.

The Order of Saint John has adopted the shell as the outward badge that its wearer has taken a “pilgrimage,” a purposeful journey to one of those sites which has historical significance to the Order and its members.