Medals of the Order pro merito melitensi awarded to long-time volunteers
On August 11, 2026, medals of the Order pro merito melitensi were awarded to long-time volunteers of the Order of Malta – Canada.
The Order pro merito melitensi is the order of merit of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, comparable to the Order of Canada. It was established in 1920 and is given in recognition of those activities that have conferred honour and prestige on the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. It is mainly awarded to non-members of the Order, regardless of religion. There are six grades of the Order and three levels of medals, both in civilian and military classes. Awards are usually made by decree of the Sovereign Council. The Order pro merito melitensi is a separate honour from being a member of the Order of Malta itself.
This year two grants were made: Ronald Cusson and Marielle Renaud both received the Silver Medal of the Order, civilian class, in recognition of their work at the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap at Cap-de-la Madeleine near Trois Riviéres, Québec. Each weekend, members and volunteers of the Order of Malta provide first-aid services to pilgrims at the Sanctuaire. The medals were presented by François Caron, Knight of Magistral Grace in Obedience, Cross with swords of the Order pro merito melitensi, and Member of the Board of Directors of the Order of Malta – Canada.
The Order of Malta – Canada is proud of the service given by Ronald Cusson and Marielle Renaud, and grateful to all of our volunteer first-aid providers. The Sanctuaire is the only place in Canada where the Order of Malta and St. John Ambulance work together to provide care for pilgrims.
