Dear Members of the Order

In wishing you all a very happy and fulfilling new year, I thank you, one and all, for the splendid works you continue to carry out in the name of our Order.

Despite the many advances in society, the cries for help from the hungry, the poor and the afflicted still call to us and inspire our vocation as hospitallers. In the past year I have had the privilege of visiting many of the projects Order members run with such care and dedication and everywhere I find our members, our volunteers, and our young, full of joy and charity as they offer care and love to those who suffer.

In leading our beloved Order at this challenging time in history, I would urge you always to bear in mind the wonderful spirituality that as a religious lay Order is inextricably part of our vocation to serve the sick and that the coming year be distinguished by a coherent Christian testimony in all situations’ as our greatly appreciated pro-Patron, HE Archbishop Paolo Sardi, has noted in his first Christmas message to us. This aspiration is part of our mission, and, in carrying it out, I am convinced that our working together will go from strength to strength.

I am proud of what we do in the name of Christ, proud of our commitments and achievements, proud of all of you, who make up this, our beloved Order. I wish you all joy in your undertakings in this coming year, in your religious dedication and in your help to those in need.

Fra’ Matthew Festing