The Chancellors of the Priory of Canada have come from many different backgrounds and from across Canada. The role has been filled by members of the armed forces (including many World War II veterans), lawyers, judges, doctors, police officers, and even by a former Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Multiple past Chancellors have been honoured by being promoted to the Orders highest rank, Bailiff/Dame Grand Cross (GCStJ).
From 1933 to 1946, before the elevation to Priory, the Commandery of Canada was headed by the Lieutenant of the Commandery. This position became known as Sub-Prior in 1946 when the Commandery of Canada became the Priory of Canada. The title would change to Chancellor during the tenure of the first person to hold this position, Charles Gray, KStJ, who was Chancellor 1946-1960, making him the longest serving Chancellor. Most of the following Chancellors would serve terms of two or three years. The current practice is for the Chancellor to serve a two-year term.
The 27th and current Chancellor of the Priory of Canada is Dr. Christopher McCreery, MVO, KStJ. He began his term as Chancellor in June 2026.
Each of the 27 Chancellors have a unique story, both with regards to the service that they have provided to the Order, but also the service that they have provided to the nation and to their communities. These stories highlight the many achievements of those who have been appointed to serve as Chancellor in Canada, representing thousands of dedicated volunteers from every walk of life.
Current Chancellor: Dr. Christopher McCreery, MVO, KStJ
Dr. Christopher McCreery became Chancellor of the Order of St. John in Canada in June 2026, serving as the non-executive Chair of the Board of St. John Ambulance Canada.
A longtime St. John Ambulance volunteer, he served as National Historian from 2005 to 2022 and on the Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Council Board of Directors from 2014 to 2024, including two years as Chair. He became Deputy Chancellor of the Order beginning in 2024.
Dr. McCreery holds a doctorate in Canadian political history from Queen’s University and has served as Private Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia since 2009. He is an author and historian who has written numerous books, including The Maple Leaf and the White Cross, a history of St. John Ambulance and the Order of St. John in Canada.
For a list of past leaders of the Order, please click here.