The Order's care for people in need springs from Christian faith and recognises Christ in the sick and the poor.
The Order's motto is not a choice between prayer and action. Protection of faith and service to the poor belong together. Faith becomes credible in mercy; charitable service retains its deepest dignity when every person is recognised as a child of God.
The first hospital in Jerusalem welcomed pilgrims and cared for the sick. That hospitaller vocation continues wherever members, volunteers and relief organisations defend life, accompany suffering and restore human dignity.
Blessed Gérard, founder of the Order's first hospital brotherhood in Jerusalem, remains a model of organised Christian charity. The South African Brotherhood bearing his name seeks to continue that tradition in practical service.
Spiritual formation, participation in the sacramental life of the Church and personal prayer sustain the works of mercy. Service is offered without discrimination and with respect for the conscience and dignity of every person.
The following chapters from Father Gérard Lagleder's book Blessed Gérard and his ‘Everlasting Brotherhood’ provide a fuller study of the sources and distinctive character of the Order's spirituality.
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Spirituality of the Order of Malta
Saints and Blessed of the Order of Malta