From the Conference of the Americas New Standpoints for the Order of Malta’s Mission
“Let us remain in contact, follow through on the ideas we have shared, and seek practical ways to work together. Wherever possible, let us turn a conversation begun here into a common effort that benefits those we serve.” This was Grand Master Fra’ John T. Dunlap’s invitation to the participants of the Order of Malta’s 10th Conference of the Americas, held in Buenos Aires from 22 to 25 October, in his concluding address.
A request for collaboration and sharing experiences that was one of the guiding threads of the Conference, dedicated to the theme “One mission, many vocations – The Order of Malta in the Americas between tradition and modernity”.
During the meeting, the main challenges the Order is called to tackle on the continent were addressed: from spiritual formation to the growth and renewal of associations, from the involvement of new generations and volunteers to the strengthening of charitable and humanitarian activities. Particular attention was paid to the need to develop greater collaboration between the various entities of the Order and with external organizations that share its values and objectives. Among the concrete initiatives was the establishment of a pilgrimage that could bring together all associations annually in Guadalupe, Mexico.
The thematic sessions provided insight into the activities of Malteser International and the humanitarian projects underway on the continent, together with initiatives supported by the Order of Malta Donors for Projects Foundation (OMDP). Ample space was also given to the Order’s spiritual and religious dimension, with a talk by the Prelate, Monsignor Luis Manuel Cuña Ramos, and to issues such as the protection of the Order’s name and emblems, communication and the strengthening of diplomatic relations.
A central role was reserved for working groups, dedicated to spirituality and training, the renewal of associations, and the strengthening of internal and external cooperation. The programme also included two side events dedicated to ambassadors and hospitallers from the countries involved. There are 25 national associations in the Americas whereas the Order maintains bilateral relations with 27 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean and official relations with Canada.
In his closing address, the Grand Master emphasized how the plurality of vocations within the Order represents a wealth to be placed at the service of a shared mission, recalling the importance of mutual listening, humility and support among the various components of the institution. Fra’ John T. Dunlap also reiterated the need to combine fidelity to tradition with the ability to respond to the needs of an ever-changing world, including new modes of intervention, always focussing on the Order’s charism and its service to the poor and sick.
The conference, organized by the Order of Malta’s Argentine Association, concluded on Sunday 25th October, with a solemn Eucharistic celebration in the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires, sealing four days dedicated to strengthening ties between the Order’s various entities in the Americas.
