On Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Cathedral of Saint Matthew in Washington, D.C., our very own Paul Lee will be invested as a Knight of Magistral Grace in the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta, or the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.

 

The Order of Malta, as it’s often called, was founded in the 11th Century to protect pilgrims, the sick, and defend Christian territories in the Holy Land.  Today the Order of Malta is active in 120 countries where the Knights and Dames of Malta continue noble works through living the Catholic faith and fidelity to the Church, providing medical and humanitarian assistance, and preserving human dignity for all in need, regardless of origin or religion.  The Order of Malta is especially active in providing assistance to those impacted by natural disasters and armed conflict.  Their mission is summarized in their motto: Tuitio Fidei et Obsequious Pauperum (Defense of the Faith and Assistance to the Poor).

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The Order of Malta is also one of two orders of Papal Knighthoods still in regular existence, recognizing the historical nature of groups of individuals willing to sacrifice their lives for the protection of the Church and of the papacy.

 

This is a great honor for Paul, and in addressing Paul about this honor, our Apostolic Administrator Bishop Pates noted “the Order is recognized for its loyalty and service to the Holy Father and in a particular manner serving the sick and the poor.”