‘Flag’ is a general term covering banners, standards, colours, and many other types including national flags.
A banner is a heraldic flag which has the Arms across its whole surface.
In the Order of St John context there are three types of banners:
- The Great Banner of The Order
- represents the worldwide Order of St John
- Establishment-Specific Banners
- a Priory, a Commandery, or the Eye Hospital Group
- Personal Banners
- certain individuals are entitled to a personal banner (e.g. Bailiffs/Dames Grand Cross)
The Great Banner of the Order
The Great Banner displays the Arms of the Order of St John — a white cross on a red background. It has an augmentation of honour, being the Sovereign’s crest in the first quarter. This was granted by King George V. The banner measures 89.5 x 111 cm, and it has a 5 cm alternating red and white fringe.
The Australian Priory Banner
The Banner which is specific to the Priory in Australia is identical to the Great Banner, with the addition of a blue disc in the centre, containing the stars of the Southern Cross.
In a capitular procession, the Priory banner is carried at the front of the procession, immediately behind the Cross of the Order.