The Order of Malta’s first World Day will take place in the streets of many countries. On 14 October next, the Order of Malta’s members and volunteers will give life to the numerous initiatives that the Grand Priories, National Associations and Volunteer Corps are organizing for the day. The aim is to introduce the Order of Malta to a wider public, describing its main activities and attracting new volunteers.

Information points, first-aid simulations and medical facilities offering free consultations will be set up in many countries on five continents. The Order of Malta’s doctors, nurses and psychologists will be on hand to answer questions and inform citizens about the many projects to help the sick, the disabled, the elderly and the poor, both locally and internationally. Members and volunteers will recount their spiritual and service experiences in one of the oldest Catholic religious orders.

October 14 is not a day chosen at random; it is the Saturday closest to October 13, the memorial of Blessed Gerard, founder of the Order of Malta.

The World Day comes from the Order of Malta’s positive experience in Italy, where in recent years it has celebrated its National Day in marquees set up in Italian piazze (11 piazze in 2018; 18 in 2019; 31 in 2022).

The success of the Italian National Day was remarkable and went well beyond expectations. For this reason, it was decided to turn the Order of Malta Day into a global event on 14 October 2023.