The Order of Saint John of Jerusalem Knights of Malta Ecumenical, with their Chevalier Commander Norman Yammine, began distributing food to the homeless during Easter Week this year.
The initiative covers areas such as Woolloomooloo, Martin Place, Goulburn and Newcastle, with plans to expand to Liverpool and Penrith.
Last week, volunteers gathered in Woolloomooloo to distribute meals before heading to Martin Place to continue supporting the community.
The Order of St John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights of Malta, boasts a one-thousand-year history.
Founded around 1048 in Jerusalem, it initially focused on aiding pilgrims and those in need.
During the Crusades, it took on a military role to protect pilgrims and Christian territories.
After Jerusalem fell, the Order established itself in Rhodes in 1310 and later in Malta in 1530, becoming a stronghold against the Ottoman Empire, notably withstanding the Great Siege of 1565.
Expelled from Malta in 1798, the Order reinvented itself as a humanitarian organisation, continuing its tradition of service and charity.
Yammine, a philanthropist and founder of the Yammine Family Foundation, said, “These are the most vulnerable people who need our help.”
“It’s the foundation of our Order; we are privileged to lend a hand to those less fortunate than us.”
The team consists of around 30 volunteers who, since Ash Wednesday this year, have distributed approximately 12,500 meals.
“It’s not just food; there are also two barbers offering haircuts to the homeless,” explained Frank Mirabito.
Mirabito is a Gran Priore of Australia who was also recently promoted to Gran Cavaliere di Croce during a ceremony on the island of Rhodes.
“I believe our support has been warmly received,” Mirabito continued.
“The Order has always been dedicated to charity for the less fortunate, and charity is fundamental to our duties, both as Christians and as an organisation.
“Here in Sydney, three-quarters of our members are Italian, and it’s wonderful to see so many people eager to help: Frank Placanica, Tony Rizzotto, Vincenzo Labozzetta, Benito Passarelli and Sam Romeo, just to name a few,” Mirabito added.
This year, the Order has supported the Yellow Diamond Foundation, the Father Atanasio Gonelli Foundation and the Knights of St. Sylvester, providing significant aid to the Italian community.
“This initiative has brought to light touching stories,” Mirabito shared.
“I remember someone who, after losing their job and home 12 months ago, ended up on the streets.
“Witnessing these realities makes you realise how fortunate we are. If we’re in a position to contribute, it’s our duty to do so.”
Through initiatives like meal distribution and direct support to the less fortunate, the members of the Order show that practical help and a sense of community can make a real difference in many lives.
During a season like Christmas, when the value of giving and sharing takes centre stage, the Order reminds us that each of us, through small acts, can help make the world a better place.
The dedication and generosity demonstrated by the volunteers are not only an example, but also an invitation to look beyond ourselves, recognise our blessings and play our part.
The true strength of the Order lies not only in its glorious history but in the impact it continues to have on people’s lives, building a fairer and more compassionate society.
