Without the support of individuals who are willing to devote their time and resources – in some cases over many years and even decades – the Sovereign Order of Malta and its charitable organisations would be unable to operate on such a large scale. In addition to sincere words of thanks, the Order of Malta demonstrates its appreciation, among other things, by honouring such individuals with visible awards. At the start of the new year, deserving benefactors were invited to the fore and awarded the Order of Merit ‘Pro Merito Melitensi’ by H.E. Ambassador Sebastian Prince von Schoenaich-Carolath.
Dr Robert Brandstetter
On 22 January 2026, the Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to the Republic of Austria, H.E. Ambassador Sebastian Prince von Schoenaich-Carolath, presented the long-standing Federal Managing Director of Johanniter Unfallhilfe Austria with the Officer’s Cross in gratitude for his support of the Malteser Hospitaldienst Austria. Thanks to the excellent cooperation, ongoing assistance and great personal commitment, it was possible to carry out numerous joint projects and provide essential services for people in need.
Brigadier Kurt Wagner
Also on 22 January 2026, special thanks were extended to the long-standing Military Commander of Vienna for his outstanding support and excellent cooperation with the Malteser Hospitaldienst Austria over recent years. The honour was bestowed by the Ambassador of the Order of Malta to the Republic of Austria in the presence of the Commander of the Malteser Hospitaldienst Austria, Johann-Philipp Spiegelfeld.
Marc Carillet
For years, he has organised the monthly, interdenominational “Prayers Breakfast”, which is a fixed fixture in the diaries of many ambassadors. Members of the Diplomatic Corps thus meet regularly to pray together and discuss texts. In recognition of his remarkable commitment, our Ambassador presented him with the Officer’s Cross of Pro Merito Melitensi on 22 January 2026, as he thereby contributes to the fulfilment of a key aspect of the Order of Malta’s mission, namely the preservation of the faith.
