- May 22, 2020
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Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga
Ordo Regalis Sanctae Hedwigis
Foundation and Purpose:
The Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga was established by King Stanislaus Grabowski in the Year of Our Lord 2006 to honor those who embody the qualities of Saint Jadwiga of Poland—compassion, piety, and devotion to the well-being of others. This prestigious order recognizes individuals who have shown extraordinary service to their community, to the Kingdom of Poland, and to humanity at large through acts of charity, social justice, and religious devotion.Saint Jadwiga, the patron saint of Poland, was renowned for her selflessness, her support for education, her efforts to strengthen the Kingdom of Poland, and her unwavering faith. The Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga aims to continue her legacy by recognizing those who contribute to the Kingdom’s moral and spiritual health, its social fabric, and its advancement through service to the most vulnerable.
Classifications of the Order:
Grand Cross of Saint Jadwiga- Awarded to: Distinguished individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service in advancing social justice, charity, or religious devotion. This class is awarded to those who have profoundly impacted the Kingdom through their leadership in philanthropic efforts, humanitarian endeavors, or community development, reflecting the spirit of Saint Jadwiga’s own life.
- Insignia: A golden cross with a central depiction of Saint Jadwiga, wearing the crown of Poland, and holding a symbol of charity. The cross is suspended from a blue and gold sash, symbolizing divine grace and royal patronage.
- Awarded to: Individuals who have made significant contributions to charitable organizations, social justice initiatives, or religious institutions, bringing about positive change within the Kingdom. The Commander’s class honors those who have worked to alleviate poverty, promote education, and support faith-based initiatives.
- Insignia: A silver cross with an image of Saint Jadwiga in profile, suspended from a blue and silver ribbon. The ribbon represents the grace of Saint Jadwiga, while the cross symbolizes the recipient’s dedication to her ideals.
- Awarded to: Individuals who have made notable contributions to their community or religious institutions through acts of charity, mentorship, and education. This class is meant to recognize those whose work reflects the core values of Saint Jadwiga—selflessness, devotion to others, and strong moral conviction.
- Insignia: A silver cross with a subtle engraving of a crown and a heart, symbolizing the noble and loving nature of Saint Jadwiga. The cross is worn on a blue and white ribbon, representing purity and commitment.
- Awarded to: Individuals who have demonstrated acts of personal charity or social service, particularly in local communities. This medal is awarded to those whose contributions have had a meaningful impact in assisting the disadvantaged or in promoting the well-being of others.
- Insignia: A circular silver medal with an image of Saint Jadwiga, holding a symbol of the Kingdom of Poland, surrounded by a laurel wreath. The medal is suspended from a royal blue ribbon, which signifies the connection between service and national pride.
Privileges and Duties:
Privileges of the Order:Recipients of the Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga enjoy lifelong recognition for their selfless contributions. Those awarded the Grand Cross or Commander ranks may use the post-nominal titles K.S.J. (Knight of Saint Jadwiga) or C.S.J. (Commander of Saint Jadwiga), and are entitled to participate in royal ceremonies and events.
Members of the order are invited to attend significant national and religious occasions, including the feast day of Saint Jadwiga (October 16th), where their work is publicly honored.
Duties of the Order:
Members of the Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga are called upon to continue their philanthropic work, mentor others in charitable service, and advocate for justice, equality, and the betterment of society. Members must be committed to the values of Saint Jadwiga—selflessness, faith, and social responsibility—and are encouraged to use their position to inspire others to contribute positively to the Kingdom.
Ceremony of Investiture:
The investiture ceremony for the Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga is held annually on October 16th, the feast day of Saint Jadwiga, in a solemn gathering at the Royal Palace of Warsaw. The ceremony is presided over by the King of Poland, with the Royal Chancellor and other members of the royal family in attendance.The ceremony includes a procession, during which each recipient of the Order is called forward to receive their insignia from the King. A speech is given to honor the recipients, highlighting their charitable and community-oriented work. The event concludes with a celebration of Mass in the Royal Chapel, where prayers are offered in thanks for the recipients’ contributions and their continued service to the Kingdom.
Badge and Insignia Design:
The Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga features a golden cross, symbolizing both the Kingdom of Poland and the Christian faith, central to Saint Jadwiga’s life. At the center of the cross is an image of Saint Jadwiga wearing her royal crown and holding a symbol of charity—a chalice or a heart—emblematic of her devotion to the poor and the Kingdom.The Grand Cross is a large golden cross adorned with the image of Saint Jadwiga, suspended from a blue and gold sash. The Commander’s Cross is a silver version, worn from a blue and silver ribbon. The Knight’s Cross is smaller, with a silver design, worn from a blue and white ribbon. The Medal depicts Saint Jadwiga, holding a symbol of the Kingdom, surrounded by a laurel wreath, and is suspended from a royal blue ribbon.
Conclusion:
The Royal Order of Saint Jadwiga is a symbol of devotion, charity, and service to others. It honors individuals who have embodied the spirit of Saint Jadwiga, contributing to the betterment of society through acts of charity, social justice, and religious devotion. The Order serves as a reminder that the Kingdom of Poland is built upon the foundation of compassion, and those who selflessly serve others, in the spirit of Saint Jadwiga, are the true champions of the Kingdom’s future.Given under Our hand and seal, at the Royal Palace of Warsaw, this day of May, in the Year of Our Lord 2006.
His Majesty, King Stanislaus Grabowski of Poland
His Excellency Count Władysław J. Orłowski, Royal Chancellor and Keeper of the Seal
