- Blessed Gerard founded the Order of Malta in the 11th century, with a focus on serving the sick, poor, and vulnerable.
- The Order has remained true to its ancient traditions while adapting to the modern world.
- Daily prayer and devout practices are central to the Order’s spirituality.
- The Professed members of the Order set an example.
At the heart of the Order lies a strong spiritual foundation, with a focus on work, charity, and faith.
Depiction of the Order offering hospital assistance to those in need
The Order of Malta, with its rich history spanning over 900 years, has always been dedicated to serving the sick, the poor, and those in need.
At the heart of the Order lies a strong spiritual foundation, with a focus on work, charity, and faith.
Blessed Fra’ Gerard, the founder of the Order of Malta, played a crucial role in establishing the spiritual foundations that have guided the Order through centuries of service. As a man of deep faith and unwavering compassion, Gerard founded the Order in the 11th century with the primary mission of providing care and assistance to the sick, poor, and vulnerable in Jerusalem.
The term "Hospitaller" derives from the Order's historical role in establishing hospitals and caring for the sick and needy. The members of the Order, therefore, are often referred to as Hospitallers, as they carry forward the legacy of service and compassion initiated by Blessed Fra’ Gerard.
Fra’ Gerard's spiritual legacy continues to inspire the Hospitallers' mission, as the Order remains committed to following Christ's teachings and embodying the virtues of charity and compassion in their work with those in need.
The militarization of the Order of Malta was considered a necessary adaptation to ensure the safety of its hospitals and those in their care. This transition led to the emergence of the Christian knight, who combined martial prowess with spiritual dedication.
Depiction of the Christian Knights Hospitallers serving the sick
Today, the Order focuses on its humanitarian and medical missions, providing aid and assistance to the most vulnerable populations around the world.
Over time, the geopolitical landscape and the evolving needs of society have led to the dissolution of the Order of Malta's military wing.
Today, the Order focuses on its humanitarian and medical missions, providing aid and assistance to the most vulnerable populations around the world.
The spirit of selfless service, which once manifested in the form of the Christian knight, is now embodied through the dedication of the Order's members, who work tirelessly to alleviate suffering and support those in need, upholding the spiritual foundations established centuries ago.
In today's world, the Professed members of the Order embrace a new responsibility: to set an example for their non-professed confreres and to ensure the credibility of the Order within the Church and society at large.
Order of Malta members attending Mass
Fundamental to the Order's spirituality, daily prayer and devout practices for the Hospitaller—including attending Mass, offering prayers, and carrying out acts of benevolence towards the less fortunate—guide members toward a deeper communion with Christ.
The Order of Malta's spirituality manifests in the dedication of the Professed to the protection of the faith (“tuitio fidei”) and service to the poor (“obsequium pauperum”), which form the core of the Order's motto.
This dual mission is evident in the Order's many initiatives, which include providing aid during natural disasters, establishing health facilities, and offering medical or hospital assistance to those in need, particularly in mission lands and developing countries.
As society continues to evolve, the Order of Malta remains steadfast in its commitment to its spiritual foundations and mission.
Order of Malta members providing aid during natural disasters
The Professed members continue to exemplify piety, ensuring the credibility of the Order for the Church and embodying the Order’s mission to uphold human dignity. This dedication to spiritual growth and service has allowed the Order to maintain its relevance and impact throughout the centuries.
The spiritual foundations of the Order of Malta have profoundly influenced the Hospitaller's mission since its inception. Anchored in a life of piety and service, the Order has remained true to its ancient traditions while adapting to the modern world.
With its ongoing dedication to spirituality and its mission, the Order of Malta serves as a beacon of hope and a symbol of compassion for those in need around the world today.