There remain today some critics who continue to malign the great and holy Sovereign Order of Saint John. Some deny the validity of the true Sovereign Order, and/or associate it with Freemasonry due to the confusion of names previously noted. The fact is that the Sovereign Order, recognizing the revolutionary, anti-Catholic, humanist philosophy and goals of various secret societies, specifically questions all candidates for the Order in this regard, and does not permit Masons or other similar adherents into the Order's ranks.

Other critics erroneously or purposely transfer the historical continuity, rights and privileges of the historic Order of Saint John to the Papal Order, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. The Papal Order is now widely recognized as a valid order of state, and it is to be commended for its dedication to the Church and its generous works of charity. However, it was started in the 19th century by knights of the Order of Saint John from two Italian priories who illegally formed a new headquarters. Due to the confusion of the times, this group received Vatican approval as a"charitable association" circa 1830, while the true Order of Saint John was solidly settled in Russia.

The Order of Saint John's magnificent history and wonderous achievements speak for themselves. Its rights and privileges are secured by the historical recognition of emperors, kings, and heads of state; by papal bulls, concordats with the Church, and the proclamations of grateful pontiffs; and by formal treaties with nations and empires. The Order stands firmly as a noble, sovereign state; a venerable religious order long known as the Religion; and a military order of knighthood loved and feared as the Defenders of Christendom.