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New York City Area

For over 900 years, the Order of Malta has remained faithful to a simple mission: promoting the spiritual well-being of its members and providing assistance to the poor and the sick. In New York City, over 180 Knights and Dames work alongside our Affiliates to carry forward this ancient calling through hands-on service—from providing meals and medical care to the homeless, to bringing joy to children with disabilities, to supporting the elderly and isolated.

We are blessed to be served by His Eminence Timothy M. Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, who serves as Grand Cross Conventual Chaplain ad honorem of the Order and Principal Chaplain of the American Association.

About the Order of Malta

The Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. A lay religious order of the Catholic Church since 1113 and a subject of international law, the Order of Malta has diplomatic relations with over 100 states and the European Union, and permanent observer status at the United Nations. It is neutral, impartial and apolitical.

Today, the Order of Malta is active in 120 countries caring for people in need through its medical, social and humanitarian works. Day-to-day, its broad spectrum of social projects provides a constant support for forgotten or excluded members of society. It is especially involved in helping people living in the midst of armed conflicts and natural disasters by providing medical assistance, caring for refugees, and distributing medicines and basic equipment for survival. Across the world, the Order of Malta is dedicated to the preservation of human dignity and the care of all those in need, regardless of their origin or religion.

Founded in Jerusalem in the 11th century, the Order of Malta has a long history of service to the vulnerable and the sick. This 900-year history is reflected in its full name: Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta. Since 1834 the Order of Malta’s government seat has been in Rome, where it is guaranteed extraterritorial rights.

The Order of Malta operates through 11 Priories, 48 national Associations, 133 diplomatic missions, 1 worldwide relief agency, and 33 national volunteer corps, as well as numerous hospitals, medical centres and specialist foundations. It does not pursue any economic or political goal and does not depend on any other state or government.

The Order in New York City

The New York City Area serves four of the City’s five boroughs—Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and Queens—bridging both the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Brooklyn & Queens. Our works include:

• Monday Mass: We gather monthly for an evening Mass on the first Monday of each month. Mass is celebrated by one or more of our Area Chaplains.
• Malta Walks: On the third Wednesday of every month, we gather to distribute food, clothing, and essential supplies to individuals living on the streets.
• Flu Vaccination Clinics: Hosted in partnership with Malteser International Americas and local parishes, the annual clinics provide free healthcare for homeless and underserved New Yorkers.
• Mother Cabrini Hospital: Once a month, we come together to bring companionship for children and adults with profound disabilities at Sing-A-Long. The Area also supports events throughout the year, including outings and Circus.
• ArchCare at Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center and Mary Manning Walsh Nursing Home: Through Late Knight Karaoke and Sunday Mass, we provide spiritual and social support for residents in nursing care.
• Mobile Ministry: Our 15-passenger van enables works across the city and state—from prison ministry and food pantries to supporting vulnerable mothers and Malta Camp USA.
• St. John Committee: We support the Order’s local and global humanitarian efforts through annual fundraisers, including Spring Knights and the White Cross Ball of New York City (tickets are open to the public).

Join Us in Service

Because New York City is the workplace for many Knights and Dames throughout the Tri-State area, commuting members are always welcome to join us.

The NYC Area also has a very active Affiliate Corps—volunteers of any background or faith who are not members but participate in our works and activities. To learn more about volunteering, contact nycaux@orderofmaltaamerican.org.

Each year in late May, we hold a reception for prospective candidates considering membership in the Order. Members are encouraged to propose individuals to be invited.