Pope Lauds Charity Work of Order of Malta

On the Feast of St. John the Baptist Pope Benedict met with the Grand Master of the Order of Malta, Fra Matthew Festing. Here are some of the highlights of the story. The full story can be read at the Zenit website.

In the 25-minute meeting, the Holy Father and the grand master discussed the Order's 10-year plan established during the strategy meeting held January in Venice. They also considered ecumenical dialogue promoted by the Order with the Russian Orthodox Church, medical and social care administered in theHoly Land, and assistance to immigrants offered in collaboration with the Italian Coast Guard. They discussed as well the humanitarian aid offered by the Order in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar.

Benedict XVI lauded the work of the order and urged them to stay faithful to their charism of caring for the poor and sick, giving testimony of the faith.The Holy Father also greeted the members of the Order's governing body, the majority of whom were elected for another five years during the general chapter [held earlier this month in Rome.]