The Sovereign for one of the oldest continually existing organisations in the world has warned younger states not to turn their back on religion.
Speaking at Australian Catholic University’s North Sydney Campus, His Most Eminent Highness the Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ John Dunlap declared that religion is still an integral part of human culture.
“It remains a fundamental component of human development and plays a crucial role in conveying society’s messages, aspirations and desires.”
The Grand Master declared that the longevity of the Order has been due to its faith, tradition and willingness to trust in God and evolve when required.
“With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Order has been lucky to discern the sign of the times.”
“Discernment has resulted in certain points of the Order’s history to make minor adjustments to the institution and in other instances, make wholesale changes to meet the challenges of the day and those of tomorrow,” HMEH Fra’ John Dunlap said.
Despite having more than 13,500 knights, dames and chaplains, 80,000 permanent volunteers and 42,000 employees in conflict zones and disaster sites around the globe, the Grand Master echoed calls of the challenges being faced by the needy in affluent nations like Australia.
“Think of the fate of the homeless and mentally ill living in relatively wealthy countries. They’re often neglected and often left even without strong advocacy groups to call attention to their plight.
“Although these states may have extensive social welfare programs in place, many of the poorest individuals fall through the cracks, and end up living on the extreme margins of society,” HMEH Fra’ John Dunlap said.
Receiving an Honorary Doctorate at the conclusion of his address, the Grand Master vowed to see the Order continue its mission of God.
“It is a global vehicle to bring Christ to the poor and sick. It is a means by which we give to Christ eyes to see the poor, hands to bless the sick, and bodies to walk the earth”.