The Order of St. John of Jerusalem is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. Present in Palestine in the mid. 11th century, it is a lay religious order, traditionally of military, chivalrous, noble nature. Its 11,000 members include Professed Friars and others who have made vows of obedience. The other Knights and Dames are lay members, devoted to the exercise of Christian virtue and charity. What distinguishes the Knights of Malta is their commitment to reaching their spiritual perfection within the Church and to expending their energies serving the poor and the sick.

The Order of Malta remains true to its inspiring principles, summarized in the motto "Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum", (defense of the Faith and assistance to the poor and the suffering), which becomes reality through the voluntary work carried out by Dames and Knights in humanitarian assistance and medical and social activities. Today the Order carries out these activities in over 120 countries.

History of the Order - To learn about our wonderful and rich history please visit our American Association Website at the following link - http://www.maltausa.org/worldwide_history.php

Order of Malta New Jersey Area

Our New Jersey Malta group is a part of the American Association of Malta, USA. There are only three United States Associations established by decree of the Grand Master and deliberative vote of the Sovereign Council of the Order headquartered in Rome:

• The American Association, U.S.A.

  Founded in 1927 - To learn more about the American Association, which we are a part of please use the following link: http://www.maltausa.org

• The Western Association, U.S.A.

  Founded in 1953 - http://www.orderofmaltausawestern.org

• The Federal Association, U.S.A.

  Founded in 1974 as the Southern Association, they changed their name to the Federal Association in 1985. http://www.smom.org/