Order of Malta

Order of Malta

Mission of the Order of Malta

The Order of St. John of Jerusalem is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. Present in Palestine around 1066, it is a lay religious Order, traditionally of military, chivalrous, noble nature. Its 13,500 members include Professed Friars and others who have made the promise of obedience. The other Knights and Dames are lay members, devoted to the exercise of Christian virtue and charity. What distinguishes the Knights and Dames of Malta is their commitment to reaching their spiritual perfection within the Church and to expending their energies serving the poor and the sick.

The Order of Malta remains true to its inspiring principles, summarized in the motto “Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum”, nurturing, witnessing and protecting the Faith and assistance to the poor and the suffering, which become reality through the voluntary work carried out by Dames and Knights in humanitarian assistance and medical and social activities. Today the Order carries out these activities in over 120 countries.

Characteristics of the Order of Malta

The Sovereign Order of Malta is a sovereign subject of international law, with its own constitution, passports, stamps, and public institutions. The 81st Grand Master, Fra’ John T. Dunlap, was elected Head of the Order on 3 May 2023. The Order of Malta has diplomatic relations with 113 countries, the European Union, and permanent observer status at the United Nations and with the principal international organisations. The Order of Malta is neutral, impartial and non-political, which is why it can successfully act as a mediator between States.

The Order of Malta and the Philippines

The Order has recently returned to Malta, after signing an agreement with the Maltese Government which granted the Order the exclusive use of Fort St. Angelo for a term of 99 years. Located in the town of Birgu, the Fort belonged to the Knights from 1530 until the island was occupied by Napoleon in 1798. Today, after restoration, the Fort hosts historical and cultural activities related to the Order of Malta and the Philippines.