| * Mission of the Order |
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Characteristics of the Order The Sovereign Order of Malta is a sovereign subject of international law, with its own constitution, passports, stamps, and public institutions. The 78th Grand Master, Fra' Andrew Bertie, was elected Head of the Order for life in 1988. The Order has diplomatic relations with 90 countries - many of which non-Catholic - and missions to major European countries, as well as to European and international organizations. The Order of Malta is neutral, impartial and non-political, which is why it can successfully act as a mediator between States.
The Order and the Republic of Malta 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 accommodates the Accademia
Internazionale Melitense, which is engaged in historical and cultural
activities related to the Order of Malta. |
| 04.12.2002 |
The Order of St John
of Jerusalem is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian
civilization. Present in Palestine in around 1050, it is a lay religious
Order, traditionally of military, chivalrous, noble nature. Its 10,000
members include Professed Friars and others who have made vows of
obedience. The other Knights and Dames are lay members, devoted to the
exercise of Christian virtue and charity. What distinguishes the Knights
of Malta is their commitment to reaching their spiritual perfection within
the Church and to expending their energies serving the poor and the sick.
