Diaconia
Do not limit yourselves to meeting the needs of the poor, but announce to them God’s love with the word and witness. If this were lacking, the Order would lose its religious nature and would be reduced to being a philanthropic organization.
Pope Leo XIV
Message to the Order of Malta at the conclusion of its patron saint feast
- One of the most central aspects that distinguish diakonia within the Church is the Culture of Care that is embraced internally in the Church’s entities and also in relations with third parties. This culture that looks at the person in a more holistic way must be protected and continue to be fostered in the entities.
- With the help of the specialised offices of the Archdiocese of Malta, a common awareness and sensitization campaign should be carried out by the Vicariate for Diakonia, with the active participation of all entities involved in the field of diakonia, with the aim of respecting diversity in charisms and mission, strengthening a common identity based on a culture of care and constantly reminding us of the essential mission of the Church to be present for others.
- Work in the field of diaconia is promoted in a clearer, conscious and structured way as a concrete form of participation in the mission of the Church, and not as a secondary or peripheral activity.
- More regular meetings are to be held between those involved in diaconal entities so that through the sharing of experiences and reflections, motivation and perseverance in carrying out this central ministry in the life of the Church are strengthened.