Archbishop Eamon Martin has warned that the modern world risks “slowly destroying itself” if it continues to pursue power and possessions at the expense of faith, dignity, and love.
Speaking during his homily at Newry Cathedral honouring the Order of Malta, he said: “Our troubled world at times appears to be manifesting an indestructible force of evil. The insatiable quest for power, control, prestige and possessions makes itself known in the horrific violence of war; in exploitation and neglect of the vulnerable; and crimes against the dignity of human life.”
“Our world,” he continued, “urgently needs witness to something greater, to the Transcendent – a testimony of faith, hope and love for God.” A witness he sees in the Order of Malta and its ambulance corps, numbering some 2,500 volunteers across 60 units in Ireland.
Today, the Order of Malta is active in a wide range of charitable works worldwide – from assisting sick or disabled pilgrims in Lourdes to providing relief in war torn nations. Archbishop Martin prayed that the Order may remain “committed to serving those most in need… always striving to promote the glory of God and peace in the world.”
The day was also in commemoration of The Great Siege of Malta which lasted from May to September 1565, when the island was besieged by Ottoman forces under Suleiman the Magnificent. Outnumbered ten to one – 6,000 defenders against an army of 50,000 – the Knights Hospitaller and the Maltese people held out until the Feast of Our Lady’s Nativity (September 8) when the siege was finally lifted.
The Archbishop reflected: “In 1565 the people of Malta – small in number but strong in faith and hope – believed that God and Mary were with them in their hour of need,” he said. “They held their nerve, shared their dwindling resources, and turned to the power of prayer.”
He urged members of the Order of Malta in Ireland to draw inspiration of this witness to steadfastness. “We are a Christian Order, motivated by the love of God and the hope which does not disappoint.”
