The origin of The Order of St. John can be traced back to 900 years ago, when the Crusades and numerous pilgrims headed towards Jerusalem during the Middle Ages. In 1099, a hospital in Jerusalem caring for the wounded of wars was based in the Monastery of St. John the Baptist and St. John was the patron saint. The Order of St. John was hence named and the badge of the hospital, Eight Point White Cross, was used as the badge of St. John.
Meaning of 4 Arms
To represent the 4 cardinal virtues:
1. Prudence
2. Justice
3. Temperance
4. Fortitude
Meaning of 8 Points
To represent the qualities of a good first-aider: