47 New Maltese: A strong sign of charity in Innsbruck!

47 New Maltese: A strong sign of charity in Innsbruck!

On June 21, 2025, an impressive celebration took place in the Church of the Wilten Abbey in Innsbruck, in which 47 new members were included in the Maltese Hospital Service Austria. This is an important highlight in the annual calendar of the Order of Malta, which is known for his long tradition in service to the needy. The great priority of Austria, Fra 'Gottfried Kühnelt-Leddihn, welcomed the young and committed newcomers and emphasized the importance of their contribution to society. Erzabt em. P. Korbinian Birnbacher OSB led the ceremonial high office, which was visited by over 400 members, family members and guests of honor.

The new members undertook to combat the so -called "eight -time misery", which includes illness, hunger, abandonment, homelessness, indifference, lovelessness, unbelief and guilt. In his speech, Commandant Johann-Philipp Spiegelfeld emphasized the responsibility, willingness to serve and solidarity that goes hand in hand with this task. Grand Prior Kühnelt-Leddihn referred to the words of the founder of the order, the blessed Gerhard, and reminded of the central mission of the order, to mitigate suffering and misery.

the Maltese and its history

The Maltese Hospital Service Austria is part of the worldwide Order of Malta, one of the oldest charitable organizations that was founded in Jerusalem in the 11th century. According to Malteser.care, the sovereign Maltese knight (SMRO) is still active and supports over 15 million people in 120 countries. The help takes place regardless of origin, religion or political conviction. The most important tasks of the order include personal childcare services, elderly and sick services as well as international disaster protection .

In Austria, around 2,200 Maltese volunteers are involved in the Maltese hospital service, with the members averaged 120 hours a year. In addition, around 1,200 members support the organization ideally and financially. The Maltese organization is deeply rooted in Christian faith and promotes the commitment of its members based on humanitarian principles .

A look into the future

The celebration in the Abbey Wilten not only illustrates the admission of new members, but also the continuation of a long tradition of the Order of Malta. The latter has a remarkable story that dates back to the 11th century when merchants from Amalfi were given permission to build a church and a hospital in Jerusalem. The order, whose patron is the St. John the Baptist, has fought through numerous challenges over the centuries and is now active in more than 120 countries .

The recording without prejudices and the willingness to help others are still central elements of maltes work. This not only consolidates social cohesion, but also opens up perspectives for voluntary work in an increasingly complex world.