The International Report

When an international disaster occurs, the world jurisdictions of the International Order of Saint Lazarus can be counted on to work in the spirit of co-operation to alleviate suffering. The recent Indonesian tsunami disaster is an example:

• The European Humanitarian Commission of the Order immediately outlined a strategy to support those in dire need as a result of this calamitous event.
• The Order in Australia was given the lead financial role and secured contributions from around the world. As a result, the Order provided financial support to have a medical doctor and 11 volunteers in the disaster area within 48 hours. This team provided food, potable water and medical aid. Since that initial effort, additional funding has resulted in the building of 50 fishing boats. With this restored source of income, many Indonesian can once again provide food for their families and earn a living.
• Currently the Order is assisting in the production of modular houses and schools. New wells are being drilled to provide potable water.

Elsewhere, the support of those in distress in Eastern Europe by Lazarus Hilswerk, a Commission of the Order, drew praise from the late Pope John Paul II. Millions of dollars in clothing and medicine were recently transported into Poland and other western bloc countries.

The co-operation, trust and strong ties between the Malta and Paris Obediences have made a positive difference in the world. Excluding the special Tsunami Fund, the Paris Obedience spent over $1million in 2004 and $1.7 million in 2005 to support international hospitaller works.

Other national jurisdictions continue to make significant contributions in various ways.
• France does much to assist those in distress in Armenia and in the Camaroons.
• New Zealand and Australia are assisting in Indonesia.
• America, in co-operation with Malta, focuses on organ transplants.
• Canada supports hospitals in Thailand and India for the active treatment of those suffering from leprosy.

Plans are currently underway for an international reunification of the Order. This is most exciting, as the Order's ability to serve will be greatly multiplied. The world jurisdictions of the International Order of Saint Lazarus, without question, will continue to make a lasting contribution to the welfare of mankind.

Visit the St. Lazarus International Website!

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