31st International Hospitallers’ Conference in Vienna
From the rising challenge of neurodegenerative diseases to humanitarian crises in war zones, from natural disasters to migration, the 31st International Hospitallers’ Conference of the Sovereign Order of Malta brings together over 120 head of associations and relief workers organizations in Vienna. The leaders gathered to discuss the most urgent issues that afflict both the high- and the low- and middle- income countries in the world.
“Dementia affects 55 million people globally, a number that continues to rise as the disease progresses. Those affected rely increasingly on their loved ones and caregivers, making dementia care a growing global challenge, particularly in ageing societies”, remarked the Queen Silvia of Sweden in her message, introducing one of the themes of the conference. Established in 1996 from the Swedish Queen to improve the quality of life for people with dementia, their families and to advance research, the Silviahemmet Foundation works with the Order of Malta in Germany: more than 80 employees from the Order’s health care and care units across the country were trained in Silviahemmet structures to further educate others on dementia care. “As part of the Order of Malta, you have a unique opportunity to make a difference for people with dementia and their families worldwide”, concluded Queen Silvia.
“Our Order has long stood as a beacon of humanitarian service, and we are recognised around the world for our commitment to treating the sick and poor with care, compassion, and justice” said the Grand Master, Fra’ John Dunlap, addressing the participants at the conference. “Our world faces ongoing crises at the same time that it confronts the possibility of a breakdown in the only world order most of us have known. Drawn together by the blessings and grace that come to us as a religious order, we gather the strength to face seemingly intractable problems, relying not only on each other, but also on our Catholic Faith”.
The meeting aims also to make a point about emergency and conflict scenarios in which the Order of Malta is present, with over 100,000 volunteers and over 50,000 full-time staff around the world. In particular, the Order of Malta through its international relief agency Malteser International are working intensively to provide medical assistance with a planned opening of a Primary Health Center in Gaza, in collaboration with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
The Order works also in regions affected by disasters, like Myanmar recently, where the Malteser International team on the ground is currently assessing the extent to which the refugee camps in Thailand they are supporting have been affected by the earthquake.
“Our common goal remains to help and support the most vulnerable among our brethren. Through our collective efforts, may we illuminate new pathways of hope, solidarity, and resilience. Let us continue to embody the principles of Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum – defending the faith and serving the poor”, said the Grand Hospitaller Joseph D. Blotz.
Photo-Credit: Thomas Meyer/APACE Media
