Brother's of St. John of God
“Do good for yourself by doing good for others.” – St. John of God
Who We Are
The Brothers of St. John of God are part of a centuries-old tradition of compassionate service. Inspired by our founder’s call to “Do good for yourself by doing good for others,” we dedicate our lives to caring for the poor, the sick, the elderly, and the abandoned.
Since our arrival in North America, we continue this mission through healthcare, shelters, elderly care, and community outreach — always guided by the values of hospitality, respect, and compassion.
Our Founder: St. John of God
In 1539, Granada, Spain was a city of great wealth but also of deep neglect, where the poor and sick were often abandoned. Juan Ciudad, later known as St. John of God, devoted his life to caring for those forgotten by society.
After enduring his own suffering, John opened a hospice he called the “House of God,” offering food, shelter, and dignity to all. He believed that love and relationships had healing power, and he invited others to join his mission:
“Do good for yourself by doing good for others.”
His example spread quickly, inspiring a movement of charity that has endured for centuries. St. John of God died in 1550 after saving a drowning man. He was canonized in 1690 and later named patron saint of hospitals, the sick, nurses, booksellers, and firefighters.
John’s legacy was more than founding a hospice — it was a new vision of compassion. His care showed that love and dignity have the power to heal, and he invited others to share in this mission. Over the centuries, his spirit has inspired hospitals, care homes, and ministries across the world. Today, his followers continue bringing hope and healing wherever suffering exists.
The Brothers in North America
The mission of St. John of God reached the United States in 1941, beginning with service to the hungry in Los Angeles. Over the decades, the Brothers expanded their ministries to include hospitals, mental health services, shelters, and homes for the aging.
Today, the Brothers are present in Los Angeles, Toronto, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Florida. Though their numbers have grown smaller, their mission continues with the support of dedicated Co-workers and lay partners who share the same vision of compassionate hospitality.
Currently, the Brothers are moving toward uniting their Provinces into one — the Province of St. John of God in North America — a renewed commitment to continue bringing dignity, healing, and hope to new generations.
Our Mission & Values
At the heart of our work is the spirit of hospitality, which St. John of God left as our legacy.
Hospitality
Welcoming every person with dignity.
Respect
Recognizing the image of God in all.
Compassion
Serving with empathy, love, and care.