The mission and values of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta are beautifully encapsulated in its historic motto: “Ut Unum Sint”, meaning “That They May Be One”.
This phrase is derived from a profound passage in the Gospel of St. John (17:21), where Christ prays for unity among his followers. The full verse reads:
“Ut omnes unum sint, sicut tu Pater in me, et ego in te, ut et ipsi in nobis unum sint”
Translated, this means: “That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me and I am in you, that they too may be one in us.”
A Call for Christian Unity
The motto reflects the Order’s spiritual foundation, underscoring its commitment to fostering unity, collaboration, and mutual understanding among its members and within the broader Christian community. It reminds us of the importance of working together in service to humanity, guided by shared faith and principles.
A Legacy Extended by Pope John Paul II
The shortened form, “Ut Unum Sint,” gained additional significance when Pope John Paul II used it as the title of his 1995 encyclical, a pastoral letter focused on the theme of Christian unity. In this encyclical, the Pope called for deeper dialogue and cooperation among Christian denominations, echoing the same prayer for unity expressed in the Gospel of St. John.
Embodying the Motto Today
For members of the Order, “Ut Unum Sint” is more than a motto—it is a guiding principle. It serves as a constant reminder of the Order’s dedication to unity, both within its ranks and in its mission to serve the broader community. The timeless message of “That They May Be One” continues to inspire efforts toward building bridges of understanding and compassion across divides, embodying the Order’s noble values in every action.