Order of Malta Australia gathers to reaffirm mission of Defending the Faith
At the weekend, 100 Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta met in Melbourne for their Biennial Assembly. The theme was a direct reference to their centuries-long mission of ‘‘caring for the sick and poor and defending the faith’.
Whilst they no longer have the 12th century military task of defending the sick, pilgrims and territories, the modern-day Knights and Dames are tasked with a spiritual campaign to meet today’s spiritual and social challenges in an increasingly secular society.
“The gathering of members at the National Assembly aims to support members of the Order of Malta in continuing our mission” explained National President of the Order of Malta, John Murphy. “Underpinning all our activities is the spiritual dimensions of service. Our service to the sick and the poor goes hand in hand with defending the faith”.
In this spirit, Professor Darius von Guttner Sporzyński opened for the speakers at the assembly with a reflection on how embracing the history of the Order helps to grasp the essence of its charism. He concluded by announcing a History of the Order of Malta Program in development in partnership with Australian Catholic University that would launch in 2026.
Defending Faith Through Action
As longtime advocates for compassionate palliative care, the Order of Malta has responded to the legalisation of assisted dying in all states, by expanding its hands on activities that promote care that respects life until natural death.
Associate Professor Natasha Michael was therefore invited to speak to attendees at the assembly on the relevance of the hospitaller spirit in modern day palliative care and provide insights into the impact sustained, continuous, and compassionate care can have on patients.
Attendees also heard from speakers about other Order of Malta Australia’s projects to serve ‘the least, the last and the lost’, including its expanding work nationwide with the homeless and disadvantage and development of its medical centre in Timor-Leste to provide free primary medical care to the poorest Timorese.
One of the highlights of the assembly included Professor Francis Campbell question and answer session following his talk on the importance faith communities actively engaging in and contributing to societal debates. He highlighted the importance of religious voices in shaping ethical frameworks and promoting the common good within pluralistic societies.
Defending the Faith Through Prayer and Formation
The Australian Association was honoured to host Fra’ Max Rumney, Grand Prior of England. He spoke about the Life of the Professed and their devotion to the Order’s charism and delved into the deeper meaning behind the three evangelical vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience taken by Professed Knights.
Unsurprisingly the assembly also featured several religious services, made even more special by the promotion and admittance of new members.
A Vigil Service at Sacred Heart Church, Corpus Christi, included Archbishops Peter Comensoli and Anthony Fisher both received to Chaplains Grand Cross ad honorem.
An Investiture Mass admitted three new Knights and Dames, and three new chaplains: Rev Fathers Binh Le, Max Vodola and the Most Rev Bishop Anthony Ireland into the Order.
“Our chaplains are truly a blessing for our Order” explained National President, John Murphy. “Not only do they provide spiritual guidance and support our members ongoing formation, but a number are also actively involved in our charitable works”.
Defending the Faith Through Witness and Presence
Members of the Order of Malta concluded the weekend by joining thousands at Mass led by newly invested Order of Malta chaplain, the Most Rev Bishop Anthony Ireland. They then joined in the annual Corpus Christie Procession through the streets on Melbourne in a powerful, public demonstration of faith.
