Hospitaller Conference Offers Global View

The International Hospitaller Conference that concluded earlier this month in Vienna, Austria was an opportunity to appreciate the worldwide scope of our Order in profound ways. Jane Lanier, Federal Association hospitaller, and Deacon Michael Stankewicz, executive director of the association, represented our knights and dames in connecting with other hospitallers and members of our Order throughout the conference programs.

As part of our continuing formation for all members and candidates it is important to note that learning about the Order internationally not only informs us of the wonderful works in our own association but gives us a broader sense of our foundation as a religious order. It also gives us the opportunity to expand our knowledge of the effective delivery of spiritual and Catholic-centered humanitarian works of the Order throughout the world.

A few of the highlights of the conference include:

* Time with and addresses from the Grand Magistry—Grand Hospitaller Josef Blotz and Prelate Msgr. Luis Cuna Ramos.

 * Messages from Queen Silvia of Sweden and Grand Master Fra' John Dunlap, and others.

* Scientific presentations on dementia, including one by Dr. Ursula Sottong, M.D., Ph.D., MPH, MSc, the official representative for further education and certification of the Silviahemmet Foundation, on the need for training and education for the caregivers of those with dementia.

* A major theme of safeguarding those we work with and for; this being our responsibility.

On Saturday evening we traveled to Mailberg for Holy Mass at the Grand Commandery there. Dinner was offered that evening by the hospitaller of the Grand Priory of Austria. 

We heard heart-wrenching presentations from hospitallers in Spain, Poland, and our Western Association, USA on the critical work providing aid and emergency relief throughout the world.

More specifically, we heard about the relief efforts, and the importance of prayer along for our good works, in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. Ambassador Michele Bowe, representing the Order to Palestine, discussed Holy Family Hospital's hope-affirming and life-giving activities in that war-torn part of the world.

We also heard from Bishop Mark Joseph Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso, Texas about current efforts assisting displaced persons and migrants, and many other addresses on current international topics.

One of the most vivid presentations was by Major General Albin Rentenberger, chief teaching officer for higher military leadership of the Austrian National Defense Academy, on various global conflicts and their potential for leading to military action. All sobering and informative.

Holy Mass was held in Vienna at the Church of St. John the Baptist, in the city center. Deacon Michael served as the deacon at the Masses and was so well-versed in all his duties, including proclaiming the Gospel and following every international protocol for the liturgy. The papal nuncio to Austria was the main celebrant. Dinner that evening was at St. Johann’s Club, and I was invited to sit with John McInerny, president of Malteser International Americas.

In conclusion, we hope this gives you a snapshot of the importance of the Order of Malta and how its works for the sick and poor, defense of our faith, and promotion of spirituality for our members extend well beyond our various home regions while depending on their support.