Order of Malta delegation visits Adelaide
Local
A visit to Adelaide by the Order of Malta’s Australian leadership team was an opportunity to show the delegation some of the outreach programs supported by the order in South Australia.
National president John Murphy, past president James Douglas and vice president Daniel Kwok met with local members, volunteers, aspirants and partners on July 8 and 9.
The visit began with a meeting of the directors of the newly established Malteser International Asia Pacific (MIAP) interim Board which marks the beginning of a new chapter for humanitarian outreach in the region, expanding current projects (including the order’s clinic in Timor Leste) and hands-on service throughout Southeast Asia.
The delegation toured services for the homeless including the Hutt St Centre, Catherine House and the Adelaide Day Centre. These visits offered firsthand insight into the order’s active engagement in supporting vulnerable communities through food and clothing distribution.
On the morning of the group’s visit to Hutt St Centre, it was sheltering more than 180 individuals during a Code Blue activation – a critical winter response that ensures safety and warmth for those exposed to harsh conditions when temperatures fall below 6°C.
“Meeting the sick and the poor face-to-face was a powerful reminder of our mission Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum – to defend the faith and serve the poor,” said Noel Mifsud, Southern Central Regional hospitaller.
“This mission is not merely a duty, but a living reflection of Christ’s presence in those we serve.”
The delegation also met with Archbishop Patrick O’Regan to discuss chaplaincy and the ongoing works of the order in SA.
Later, members and aspirants joined guests for a reception at Government House. The Governor of SA Frances Adamson AC spoke affirmingly about the order’s vital role in serving the poor, marginalised and sick, locally and globally.
Another highlight was Mass at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral. The final event was a dinner at the Naval and Military Club for members and partners to give thanks for the many blessings they share.
It was also a fitting opportunity to thank past president James Douglas for his dedicated service. Mr Mifsud said James and Margaret Douglas have been active supporters of the order’s work in South Australia, attending retreats, meetings and events with unwavering commitment.
“This visit by our national executive provided a rich opportunity for SA membership to celebrate and deepen our commitment to serving in and with the Order of Malta,”
Mr Mifsud said.
The Sovereign Order of Malta is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilisation. A lay religious order of the Catholic Church since 1113 and a subject of international law, the Sovereign Order of Malta has diplomatic relations with over 100 states
and the European Union, and permanent observer status at the United Nations.
The Australian Association was formed in 1974 and currently has more than 300 members and aspirant members across every State and Territory of Australia.
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