Pope Leo XIV’s thanks to the volunteers of the Order of Malta, at the heart of the Jubilee of Hope

Photo-credit: © Vatican Media

14/01/2026

Pope Leo XIV received in the Paul VI Hall the representatives of the institutions and organizations that contributed to the realization of the Jubilee of Hope. Among them were nearly 1,000 volunteers of the Sovereign Order of Malta, led by Grand Hospitaller Josef D. Blotz and engaged throughout the Holy Year in the medical posts of the four Major Basilicas.

With dedication and professionalism, they assisted millions of pilgrims who came to Rome from all over the world.

During the audience, the Pontiff wished to thank them for their service: “How much good there is in the world. You are the proof of how much good there is in the world!” This recognition gives value to a year of silent and generous work, carried out by the Order of Malta thanks to the contribution of more than 2,200 volunteers from about 30 countries. Each week, more than 35 volunteers were on duty, organized into eight teams made up of a doctor, a nurse or paramedic, and assistants, supported by the 90 regular volunteers of the St Peter’s Square First Aid Post. Thanks to their commitment, around 3,000 interventions were carried out, and the assistance offered to pilgrims ranged from basic medical care to the management of the most complex emergencies.


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