During the Lenten season, we are encouraged to put ourselves and our needs to one side so that we can come closer to God and our fellow human beings. As the world continues to battle with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, we cordially invite you to enrich your preparation for Easter by bringing the warmth of solidarity and charity to the life of people in need around the world.

For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat,
I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink,
I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me,
I was in prison and you came to visit me.
[…]whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.
— Matthew 25:35-36, 40

This verse has been the inspiration for the work of the Order of Malta since the early 12th century when a group of monks founded a hospice in Jerusalem to care for the sick and poor. Following the motto “tuitio fidei et obseqium pauperum”, the Order of Malta remains true to its inspiring principles living and serving its Christian faith through its mission to help people in need around the world.

For Malteser International, the implication of the passage from Matthew 25 is as revelatory as it was in Bible times. Our work to bring help to the most vulnerable is driven by the conviction of their inherent dignity; in each person we recognize the presence of God, regardless of their religion, background, or political convictions.

Whether we are helping to distributing food for hungry communities, training people in sustainable agriculture, providing water supply ad sanitation, operating healthcare facilities, or bringing relief after disasters, the humanitarian principles align to our values of Christian charity.  

Would you like to do some good this Lent? There are so many ways you can bring light and hope to people in this time. Here are a few ideas:  

• Know someone near you who does not have a home or is not doing so well financially? Ask them if they need anything right now. Maybe they would appreciate a homemade meal, some money, or warm clothes.
• Is your closet full of clothes you no longer need? Take some time out, sort out your closet, and bring some of those clothes to a thrift store nearby.
• Do you know of an acquaintance, friend, or someone in your neighborhood, or an elderly person in your circle who may be lonely? Give them a call or write them a letter.
• Consciously spend more time with those close to you: Spare more time than usual for phone calls with those far away, organize activities with your partner, flat mates, or children: eat together, drink some tea, play games.
• Make it your goal to put a smile on someone's face every day, a sincere compliment can go a long way.