This Thursday, July 18, marks Mandela Day, a global celebration honoring Nelson Mandela's life and legacy. It’s a day encouraging individuals and organizations to reflect on Mandela’s values and make a positive community impact.
This day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to take time to reflect on Mandela's values and principles and to make a positive impact in their own communities.
Notably, Nelson Mandela had a significant connection with St John. He became a Knight in the Order of St John in 1996 and was later honored as a “Bailiff Grand Cross of the Order of Saint John” in 2004 at St. James’s Palace in London, the highest accolade within the Order. Mandela received this honor from Britain’s Duke of Gloucester and was a member of the Grand Priory in South Africa.
The Order of St John, with a history spanning over 900 years and re-affirmed by Queen Victoria in the 1800s, operates under the motto “Defence of the Faith and Assistance to the Poor.” Mandela once praised the organization, stating, “St John’s focus on primary health care, especially amongst the poorest of the poor, and its capacity to tap the most generous and caring human impulses, gives it a special place in our hearts.”
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
The 86-year-old former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela (C) collects his latest honour as he is invested as a Knight of St John by the Duke of Gloucester, at a ceremony in St James’s Palace.
23 November 2004.
Photo credit – Getty Images
This sentiment resonates deeply within St John, an organization committed to going above and beyond in its mission.
A memorable moment that continues to inspire St John is when Winnie Mandela lent her spectacles to Nelson Mandela upon his release from prison, enabling him to read his speech. This act highlighted the importance of eye care, aligning with St John’s emphasis on providing vision care to the elderly and those with limited means.
Mandela Day, officially declared by the United Nations in 2009 and first celebrated on July 18, 2010, urges everyone to dedicate at least 67 minutes of their day to community service. This timeframe symbolizes the 67 years Mandela devoted to fighting for human rights.
As we honor Mandela’s legacy this year, let us remember his enduring connection to St John and strive to make a positive impact in our communities, just as he envisioned.
This Thursday, July 18, marks Mandela Day, a global celebration honoring Nelson Mandela's life and legacy. It’s a day encouraging individuals and organizations to reflect on Mandela’s values and make a positive community impact.
Article outline by Illa Thompson