Who We Are

The Sovereign Order of Malta is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. Present in Palestine in around 1048, it is a lay religious Order of the Catholic Church, and a subject of international law, traditionally of military, chivalrous and noble nature. Its 13,500 members include Professed Friars and members who have made the Promise of Obedience. The other Knights and Dames are lay members devoted to the exercise of Christian virtues and charity. What distinguishes the Order of Malta from other groups is its commitment to reaching spiritual perfection within the Church and expending time and energy serving the poor and the sick.

The Order of Malta remains true to its inspiring principles, summarized in its Charisms - "Tuitio Fidei" and "Obsequium Pauperum": defense of the Faith and assistance to the poor and the suffering, which become reality through the voluntary work carried out by Dames and Knights across medical, social and humanitarian activities. Today, the Order carries out these activities in over 120 countries. Since 1834, the Order of Malta's government seat has been in Rome.

The Cuban Association of the Order was founded in Habana, Cuba in 1952; starting in 1959, its members began their exodus abroad, and since 1970, began operating outside the island. Among our 100 members are Knights and Dames who are Cuban or of Cuban descent, or who enjoy a special relationship with the Cuban people. The Cuban Association operates and funds multiple programs in Miami, Cuba, and several countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Services are delivered to qualifying individuals without regard to religion, race, creed, or national origin.

Alleviating human suffering and promoting dignity, solidarity, and welfare among the poor and the sick.