THE RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE
The white eight-pointed cross of St. John dates from the year 1120, when Raymond du Puy became the Grand Master of the
Knights Hospitallers of the Order of St. John. One of his first acts was an Ordinance requiring members to wear a white eight-pointed
cross on their robes. The arms and points of the cross were associated with the four cardinal virtues, Prudence, Temperance,
Justice and Fortitude and the eight beatitudes.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall posses the earth.
Blessed are they who morn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst after justice, for they shall be satisified.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called Children of God.
Blessed are they who suffer persecution for justice's sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.
THE SECULAR SIGNIFANCE
To the Members of St. John Ambulance, the cross has a secular significance as well as a religious one, specially
applicable to the essential qualities of a First Aider.
To render the skilled assistance required the First Aider should be:
OBSERVENT, that he may note the causes and signs of injury.
TACTFUL, that he may, without thoughtless questions, learn the symptoms and history of the case,
and secure the confidence of the patient and bystander.
RESOURCEFUL, that he may use to the best advantage whatever is at hand to prevent further damage
and assist Nature's efforts to repair the mischief already done.
DEXTEROUS, that he may handle a patient without causing unnecessary pain, and use appliances
efficiently and neatly.
EXPLICIT, that he may give clear instruction to the patient or the bystanders how best to assist
him.
DISCRIMINATING, that he may decide which of several injuries should be treated first.
PERSEVERING, that he may continue his efforts, though not at first successful.
SYMPATHETIC, that he may give real comfort and encouragement to the suffering.
THE FOUR CARDINAL VIRTUES
PRUDENCE — The habit of refering all matters to the divine guidance. On this virtue will
hinge wisdom, impartiality and tact.
TEMPERANCE — Self-control, for the highest development of man's nature, and also for personal
and social ends. On this hinges purity, humility and patience.
JUSTICE — The habit of giving to everybody, including God and man himself, their due.
On this will hinge the duties of religion, obedience, and gratitude - and also integrity, and goodwill to others.
FORTITUDE — The Spirit which resists, endures, and trimphs over the trial and temptations
of life. On this will hinge moral courage, industry and self-discipline.
