On June 17, an exhibition focusing on the centuries-long history of the Order of Malta was opened at the Tallinn Museum of Knightly Orders. Entitled “The Sovereign Order of Malta at the service of mankind” – the exhibition highlights the continuity of the Order’s activities and changes throughout history.
Indrek Petersoo, CEO of the Foundation of the Order of Malta in Estonia states that this vividly illustrates the the history of the Order, which extends across more than nine centuries, and gives an invaluable insight into the Order’s activities.”Although it originally was a military order, protecting pilgrims and the Christian faith, being established as part of the Catholic Church, today it has become a global charity organization that helps all those in need, regardless of nationality and religion.”
Catherine Lapinsh, CEO of the Museum of the Knights of Tallinn, adds that what makes the exhibition special is that numerous historical objects from the collection of the Order of Malta have been brought directly from Rome to be displayed.
Bishop Philippe Jourdan also participated in the opening, commenting that the word “Order”, which is currently not yet well understood in Estonia, will become clearer thanks to the exhibition, alongside the current philanthropic work of the Order of Malta in service of mankind today.
Alexander Tsikhilov, chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Order of Malta, in his opening remarks: “The exhibition is a living example of the worldwide activities of the Order of Malta, consistently dedicated to those in need and whose symbols of duty and honour express the Order’s values of faith, service and charity”.
In the exhibition catalogue, the Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta, John T. Dunlop invites all Estonians to visit the exhibition and become in the volunteer activities of the Order of Malta. “Your engagement and support are vital to continuing our mission of service and compassion”, he says.