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November 1st, 2025, was one of the most meaningful exhausting days of my life.

On a beautiful fall day in Toronto, I was Knighted as a Dame of The Order of St. George at St. George on the Hill Anglican Church. I'm still processing what it all means.

The Order of St. George traces its roots back to 1326, founded by King Károly Róbert of Hungary.

It's one of the most ancient secular orders of knighthood. Standing there in that consecrated space, I could smell the history, hear the voices and feel the weight of nearly 700 years of commitments.

The ceremony itself was breathtaking. There's something profound about being cloaked with the Knight's Fighting Habit, dubbed on the shoulders with the Sword of Justice, spurred with the Spur of Faith, and presented with the Consecrated Insignia. Each gesture carried meaning - a reminder of what I was committing to.

All of the Knights and Dames were invested in twos this year due to the number of worthy people joining the ranks. I was invested alongside fellow postulant Natalie Gilles, sharing this profound moment as strangers, we both committed to the same oath and the same calling fusing us to be forever family.

The ceremony was led by Chevalier Charles Hill KCStG (Grand Prior), Chevalier Adam Carter KStG (Ceremonial Director), Chevalier John Nolan KStG (Prior), and Chevalier Michael Wionzek CD, MDS, KStG (Deputy Prior, Toronto Priory).

My dear friend Dame Michaela Koch, DStG, was there to support and witness it all, which meant the world to me. She also was there to keep me from running away, even assigning Aristo as my bodyguard.

I was nominated by Dame Renee Charbonneau of Grande Prairie - someone I‘ve come to know, respect and call my friend - in recognition of the work I've done throughout my life, including my work honoured by a Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.

But this investiture wasn't just about what I've done - it was about what I'm committing to do moving forward.

What This Honour Really Means
The Chivalric Code of The Order of St. George isn't just ceremonial language - it's a way of life.

In a modern context, Chivalry means deliberately pursuing integrity, honour, courage, loyalty, compassion, self-discipline, courtesy, and service.

The vows of a 14th Century Knight were simple and powerful:
"A Knight is sworn to valour, his heart knows only virtue, his blade defends the helpless, his might upholds the weak, his word speaks only truth."

When I took my oath that day, I committed to continually practice the Chivalric virtues of Faith, Service, and Honour.

Although The Order began as a Christian Chivalric Order, today it's a secular organization that values faith as it resonates personally with each member. What matters is how we live those values.

A Commitment, Not Just Recognition
Here's what struck me most: this isn't an award you receive and put on a shelf. Service is expected of every Knight and Dame. Membership means an obligation to serve, support, and promote the aims of The Order - whether through building community, fundraising, or supporting the Foundation's charitable work. It's a commitment to service without personal advantage or conflict of interest.

Knights and Dames are expected to conduct themselves ethically in all matters. The Order of St. George is a working Order - one that strives to be honourable and ethical in action, not just in word.

Standing there that day, I understood: this is about demonstrating by word and deed a commitment to Faith, Service, and Honour. Not just once, but continually.

After the ceremony, we gathered for dinner at the Holiday Inn International Airport Grand Ballroom in Toronto. It was a chance to celebrate, yes - but also to connect with fellow Knights and Dames who share this commitment to something bigger than ourselves.

I left that day humbled, honored, and ready to live up to the oath I took. Once Again - This is just the beginning of a new life’s adventure.