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CloseMission of the Order
In brief, the mission of the Order and its auxiliary organizations is to alleviate the suffering of the poor and sick, without judgment, distinction of religion, race or political persuasion.
The Order of St John of Jerusalem is one of the oldest charitable institutions of Western and Christian civilisation. Established in Palestine around 1048, it is a lay religious Order, traditionally of military, chivalrous, noble nature. Today’s 13,500 members are devoted to the exercise of Christian virtue and charity.
The Order of Malta remains true to its inspiring principle set out nearly a thousand years ago: “Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum” – Defence of the Faith and Care of the Poor and the Suffering. This becomes reality through the voluntary work carried out by Dames and Knights in humanitarian assistance, medical and social activities in over 120 countries, as well as their charism of nurturing, witnessing and protecting the Catholic faith. Members of the Order recognize the image of God in every single individual and are obliged to work wherever the God-given dignity of human life is endangered.
As a sovereign entity, The Order of Malta is neutral, impartial and non-political, and in its diplomatic role can successfully act as a mediator between States.
The Australian Association, formed in 1974, currently has in excess of 300 members and aspirant members across every State and Territory of Australia. We also have ongoing and strong links with the Order’s National Associations throughout the Asia Pacific Region including in Singapore and the Philippines and with members of the Order in New Zealand, Hong Kong SAR, Thailand and Korea. The Order of Malta is committed to serving Our Lords the Poor and Sick worldwide and has done so for over 900 years. This website shares with you the history, mission and current activities of the Order of Malta in Australia, and provides links to the work of the Order world-wide.