| * 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 79th Grand Master, Fra' Matthew Festing, was elected Head of the Order for life on March 11th 2008. The Order has diplomatic relations with 100 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 hosts historical and cultural activities related to the Order of Malta.
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| 08.29.2008 |
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 12,500
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.
