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CURRENT NEWS
This section is dedicated to the news of the Maltese Association. The Order's International News are available at the following links:
The Order of Malta - International News
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28/12/2010 Legacy of The Knights
The third talk in the series of lectures with a theme on the Legacy of the Knights, organized by Comm. Salvator Mousù, under the auspices of MASMOM, was given by Comm. Salvator Mousù himself on Tuesday 28th December at the Grand Master's Palace in Valletta.
The subject of the lecture was " The Knights' Saga Before Their Coming To Malta". Comm. Mousù was able to animate his lecture by showing scenes as depicted by some of the murals adorning some of the State Rooms at the Grand Master's Palace.
The lecture was well attended and reconfirms the interest that these series of lectures are hold with the general public. |
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24/12/2010 Christmas Eve Mass Members of the Order and their families gathered in Our Lady of Victory Church to celebrate Christmas Eve.
Mgr Paul Vella celebrated Mass and was assisted by Mgr Anton Galea and Dun Karm. Busuttil.
A group of members under the able direction of Helen Farrugia Randon lead the singing of carols throughout the Mass which helped to provide the right spirit to usher in Christmas Day.
The traditional sermon this year was delightfully and ably recited by the young Emma Degabriele whilst the first and second readings were read by The Noble Countess Amy Bugeja Fontani and H. E. Amb. Dr. George Buttigieg respectively.
After Mass, members and their families retired to Casa Lanfreducci where they were able to exchange greetings in a jovial Christmas atmosphere with food and drinks organized by the President's wife Helen. The evening came to a close at 11.00 p.m.
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13/12/2010 Hamper Packing Day
Members of the Order and Volunteers met at Casa Lanfreducci on Monday 13th December to prepare and pack one hundred food hampers which will as usual be distributed amongst various religious and child care institutions.
This was a hard day's work but those that did attend were happy to donate some of their time on this December 13th holiday to doing something for the needy in the run up to Christmas, especially bearing in mind the theme of Mgr. Lawrence Gatt's sermon this First Friday where he touched on the subject of Advent urging members to not only prepare themselves for the coming of Jesus Christ but to also remember those less fortunate during this special period of Christmas.
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04/12/2010 Children's Party
Two hundred and twenty were expected but more than two hundred and sixty children arrived for the Christmas Party that took place on Saturday afternoon at The Grand Hotel Excelsior in Floriana.
The venue was provided free of charge by the hotel and come three o'clock the party room was soon filled with young children who, dressed in party hats and aided by whistles spent the best part of the afternoon running around full of excitement and expectations and doing what happy children always do.
First off by way of entertainment were Paul Sultana , Kevin Dingli and Francesca Gatt who sang a number of Christmas Carols, whilst the animation team dressed as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck mingled amongst the excited children providing plenty of photo opportunities.
Following on from the Carols singers, the children were then entertained by the magician who, struggling against the children crowding around him managed to keep them enthralled and guessing as he performed trick after trick.
Face painting was also provided by the animation team and children were soon seen running around with mouse faces and similar cartoon character faces. Meanwhile the hotel generously laid on plenty of food and drinks which were consumed by the children with much enthusiasm and gusto.
Finally it came time to leave and an attempt at an orderly exit as children were each given a small present proved to be very challenging with Fr. Christmas soon disappearing under a mass invasion of children all eager to get their small present and balloons.
The afternoon finally came to a close at six in the evening with all the helpers and organizers feeling totally exhausted but nonetheless happy at a successful afternoon's event.
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03/12/2010 First Friday Mass
Today being the First Friday of the month, mass was celebrated as usual at Our Lady of Victory Church in Valletta by The Very Reverends, Mgr Lawrence Gatt, assisted by Mgr Paul Vella, Dun Karm. Busuttil and Fr. Antoine Borg. During the short homily Mgr Gatt stressed the importance of using Advent to prepare for our own re birth and to consider our position in life in terms of the less fortunate. He stressed the importance in pruning our own excesses and to remember those who remain poor from birth. After mass those present retired to Casa Lanfreducci for refreshments.
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25/11/2010 THE ORDER OF MALTA'S PATRON PAOLO SARDI HAS BEEN CREATED CARDINAL
Pope Benedict XVI held the third ordinary consistory of his pontificate, in which he appointed 24 new cardinals including the papal representative to the Order of Malta, Paolo Sardi, in St. Peter's Basilica on 20 November. In the same consistory, the Order of Malta's chaplains Francesco Monterisi, Mauro Piacenza, Gianfranco Ravasi, Paolo Romeo and Donald William Wuerl were also created cardinals. During the ceremony, the new cardinals knelt before the Pope to receive the red berretta and the bull of creation containing the «title», that is the church assigned to them in Rome. Cardinal Sardi was given the Deaconry of Santa Maria Ausiliatrice in via Tuscolana. "No one is master in the Church but all are called, all are sent out, all are reached and guided by divine grace. And this is also our security!" Benedict XVI asserted in his homily to the consistory. "It is not the logic of domination, of power according to human criteria but rather the logic of bending down to wash feet, the logic of service, the logic of the Cross that is the root of all exercise of authority," the Pope added to the cardinals. The following day Benedict XVI presided at a concelebrated mass in St. Peter's with the 24 new cardinals, including twenty "electors", appointed during the consistory. The Pope gave them the cardinal's ring "the sign of dignity, pastoral care and the most solid communion with the See of Peter". The Order of Malta sent a numerous delegation, including members of the Sovereign Council and the Prelate, to participate in the consistory and after the ceremony it expressed the entire Order's great joy to the Cardinalis Patronus Paolo Sardi and the chaplains for their appointment. A numerous delegation from the Federal Association of the United States was also present at the consistory to congratulate Cardinal Donald William Wuerl, its principal chaplain. |
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November 2010 |
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29/11/2010 Legacy of the Knights
The second talk in the series Legacy of the Knights, organized by COMM. Salvator Mousu,` under the auspices of MASMOM, was given by H.E. Comm. Dr, George Gregory Buttigieg on Monday 29th November at the Auberge de Castille and entitled The Medical and Medicinal Legacy of the Knights.
The lecture started with a description of the early formation of the Brotherhood of Blessed Gerard and his setting up of the Jerusalem hospital under the Augustinian rule of the nearby Church of St Mary of the Latins. Next followed an evaluation of the input of Byzantine and Islamic Medicine to the Brotherhood's medical care , enriched at its very inception by the background of the Salernitan Schola of Medicine which was close to the Brother's home place of Amalfi.
The Brotherhood of St Jon which would turn into the Order of St John is traced in its great hospital tradition through Nablus, Bethgibelin, Acres, Cyprus and Rhodes where the famous hospital is described and discussed. Then comes Malta where the Hospitaller's experience of medical care since the eleventh century flowers into a great Hospital, new laws on Public health, Hygiene, Quarantine, Social Service, Naval Medical service…….This is looked at vis-a vis the great progress in Malta's health and eventual resultant increase in population in spite of plague epidemics, natural catastrophes, wars and episodes of near famine. Some of the famous medical school's luminaries are discussed along with their impact on European medicine. The final point is made that although the victory of the 1565 Great Siege steals the Hospitaller's show the medical legacy left by the Order between 1530 and 1798 left a quiet, progressive impact both on Malta as well as Europe in general
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26 - 28/11/2010 SMOM Advent Retreat 2010
A good number of members and wives led by MASMOM President Philip Farrugia Randon attended the Advent retreat held this year at the Manresa Retreat House in Gozo.
This year the retreat was given by The Rev Fr Geoffrey George Attard M.Th.; M.Lit.
The first talk during of the Retreat focused on The Incarnation. Fr. Geoffrey began his reflection by reading an extract from the Prologue of the Gospel according to John and then described the devotion of the first Maltese Saint, Dun George Preca, for the mystery of the Incarnation which inspired the Society of Christian Doctrine founded by him and which has as its motto the words Verbum Dei Caro Factum Est. The Catechism of the Catholic Church was quoted a couple of times and the reflection was rendered more interesting with the narration of stories related to the theme.
On Saturday morning the theme of the reflection was a Marian one. Pope Paul VI's Apostolic Exhortation Marialis Cultus and chapter 8 of Lumen Gentium focusing on the Virgin Mary were both referred to and quoted. Fr, Geoffrey provided a short historical outline of Marian devotion in the West as he presented the Blessed Virgin Mary as the first person experienced the first Advent while carrying the Christ in her womb.
On Saturday evening, the reflection focused on the Eucharist which was called 'the identity card of the Catholic'; a few stories expressing the relationship between the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation helped those present to reflect on the importance of these two sacraments.
Finally on Sunday, the theme was Cor ad Cor Loquitur; Prayer as dialogue. As the title shows, this time the reflection was inspired by Blessed John Henry Newman's motto which in English means Hearts Speaks to Heart. Inspired by these words of Cardinal Newman, Fr Geoffrey outlined the various types of prayer and showed the importance of prayer during this special time of year strengthening his arguments by narrating stories related to the theme.
On Saturday afternoon the Via Crucis was held in the garden amongst the carefully manicured hedgerows and trees of the beautiful grounds that surround Manresa House.
In between the reflections and prayer sessions members were able to avail themselves of the opportunity provided buy the beautiful weather to go for gentle walks in and around Rabat and the surrounding areas. Meals served in the refectory were slightly noisy affairs with members able to enjoy a more relaxed and jovial atmosphere
The Advent Retreat came to a close after lunch on Sunday. During lunch President Philip Farrugia Randon thanked those members who had participated. He also had special words for Chris Galea who once again worked hard behind the scenes to ensure the success of the weekend.
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20/11/2010 The Order of Malta has a new Cardinal Patronus
In a moving ceremony at the Basilica of St.Peter’s, Pope Benedict XVI has created as cardinal Archbishop Paolo Sardi, patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. His Eminence was appointed Patron of the Order in 2009, following the death of Cardinal Pio Laghi, who had served the Order is this role for many years. His Eminence is the Vice Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, and since 1996 has been Apostolic Nuncio with special responsibilities and now also Cardinal Patronus of the Order. Since his appointment by the Pope to the role of Patron, the new cardinal has been working closely with senior members of the Order, lending his presence and his wisdom to ongoing activities in both the religious and hospitaller spheres. Born 1 September 1934 in Ricaldone, province of Alessandria, diocese of Aqui, Cardinal Sardi has, since the pontificate of John Paul II, coordinated the Vatican office which edits the Pope’s texts and addresses. Ordained a priest on 29 June 1958, after a licentiate in theology he graduated in canon law and jurisprudence at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan. He taught moral theology in Turin until 1976, when he was called to the Vatican to work in the Secretariat of State. In 1992 he was appointed Vice Councillor and on 10 December 1996, Apostolic Nuncio with special responsibilities and titular Archbishop of Sutrium. On 6 January 1997, Pope John Paul II ordained him bishop in the Vatican Basilica. On 23 October 2004 he was nominated Vice Camerlengo (chamberlain) of the Holy Roman Church. Cardinal Paolo Sardi has the task of promoting the spiritual interests of the Order and its members and its relations with the Holy See. The members of the Order around the world share the joy of this day and the ascent to high office of their new Cardinal Patronus. |
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17/11/2010 Funeral of His Lordship Bishop Emeritus Mgr Nicholas J. Cauchi
Courtesy of Martin Micallef
Courtesy of Martin Micallef Wednesday 17th November, The Maltese Association of the Order of Malta paid tribute to a great confrère who served the Diocese of Gozo for more than thirty five years with great commitment and humility. The Maltese Association were led by H.E. President Philip Farrugia Randon and the Chancellor of the Association. Knights residing in Gozo also participated in the corteo with the corpse from the Bishop’s Palace to the Gozo Cathedral in Victoria. The funerary Mass was led by four bishops and thousands of people came to give their last farewell to their beloved Bishop. Burial followed in St Ursola’s Chapel in the Cathedral. The late Bishop was a keen member of SMOM, participated always in SMOM’s National Pilgrimages to the Shrine of Ta’ Pinu and was looking forward to accompany the Association in our next Pilgrimage to Lourdes.
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11/2010 The late Tommy Pace, OBE
We regret to announce the death, at the venerable age of 96, of Col Tommy Pace, OBE, latterly of St John's Wood, London. He was born and bred in Malta and served his entire career in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was immensely proud to have been invested a Knight of Magistral Grace of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in June 2009 and described himself as the newest, oldest member of the British Association. He had been Sacristan of the Order's Conventual Church in St John's Wood for thirty years and, even after that, had regularly attended every Mass there until a few weeks before his death, owing to advancing cancer.
He was a keen follower of rugby and cricket and was a member of the Marylebone Cricket Club (Lord's). His wife predeceased him by about fifteen years. There were no children. His four devoted nieces live in Malta, although they spent much time in London in the final two years of his life to be near him. |
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13/11/2010 Lourdes Reunion Mass
Members of the Order, helpers and Our Lords the Sick met for evening Mass on Saturday 13th November at the Tal Mirakli Hall for the Lourdes Pilgrimage 2010 Reunion.
The Tal Mirakli hall provided an intimate atmosphere for the good number that assembled for Mass at 5.30 pm and which was celebrated by Fr David Gauci assisted by Fr Karm Busuttil.
Josephine Farrugia Randon read the first reading with Alfred Mangion reading the second.
After Mass acquaintances were renewed and everyone had an opportunity to exchange personal memories and experiences of this year’s 2010 Lourdes pilgrimage. All the malades, parents and helpers that attended the reunion were very appreciative of the care and the attention they received whilst being hosted and cared for by members of the Order and volunteer helpers.
Food was kindly organized by Miriam Kerr with the evening coming to a close at about 7.00pm
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5/11/2010 Friday 5th November 2010 - First Friday Mass Holy Mass was celebrated at 6.00pm on this First Friday on the 5th November, at Our Lady of Victory Church.   Mass was celebrated by Mgr PaulVella assisted by Fr Antoine Borg and Fr Karm Busuttil.   At this mass we especially remembered amongst others, our late confrère President Emeritus Prof Guido de Marco for which members of his immediate family also attended.   Anthony Critien read the epistle whilst Anthony Miceli Demajo read the bidding prayers. After Mass light refreshments were served at Casa Lanfreducci.
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6/11/2010 FOTO Mass
A full congregation of family members and friends gathered at Our Lady of Victories Church on Saturday, 6th November for the annual Mass organised by FOTO for the souls of the deceased patients of Boffa Hospital.
The Hospital Chaplain., Rev. Fr. Sylvester Bonavia OFM Cap: officiated., whilst the new Hospital Superintendent Dr. Christine Chircop Micallef also attended with a number of nursing staff.   The Mass concluded with Fr. Sylvester sincerely thanking the ladies of FOTO and VOTO - as well as MASMOM., for the daily services provided to the Oncology Unit at Boffa Hospital.   |
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08/10/2010 Countdown to historic birth at the Holy Family Hospital, Bethlehem
Excitement is building for an historic birth at the Holy Family Hospital, Bethlehem, located only 500 yards from the traditional birthplace of Jesus. After 20 years in operation under the Order of Malta, the Holy Family Hospital will welcome into the world its 50,000th baby – as soon as this month! Up until 4 October, the total stands at 49,803 babies delivered since 1990, the year the Order of Malta reopened the facility as a maternity hospital. It refuses no-one on the basis of race, religion nor ability to pay. “Because of the shortage of well-trained nurses and doctors in Palestine, our neonatal team is overloaded with work,” Dr. Jacques Keutgen, General Manager of the Hospital, reports. “All the difficult cases, not just from the Bethlehem district, but also from Hebron and sometimes Ramallah, are being sent to the Holy Family Hospital. During June and July 2010 we had an occupancy rate of 97%. That means a strong commitment, not only medically, but financially too.” Mobile Outreach Team treat desert communities For the past five years, hospital staff members also have been bringing hope, on weekly visits to desperately poor families living in the desert near Bethlehem. The Holy Family Hospital mobile outreach van regularly visits three locations in the Judean desert. Word has spread through the remote communities, and scores of women and children venture down from the hills to be examined by the team.
“Families exist in dreadful poverty and isolation in this area,” says Colleen Marotta, executive director of the Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation in Washington. “They live in canvas tents or metal shacks with no running water, no electricity, no sanitation, in extended family groups of 20-40 … outcasts of a cast-out population.” The Holy Family Hospital mobile outreach medical team perform prenatal, paediatric and gynaecological examinations, and laboratory tests. The team also educate mothers about hygiene and childcare, and check on living conditions. During an average stop, the team will examine 30 expectant mothers, all in desperate need of prenatal care. With great joy and satisfaction the Order of Malta family awaits the 50,000th baby to be born at Bethlehem. |
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09/2010 CAMINO INGLES
Whenever the Feast of St James falls on a Sunday, The Order organise a pilgrimage to Santiago. This year a group from Malta set off 120 km journey to Santiago, having arrived there via train from Lourdes. The group averaged about 20 km a day, over six days with the longest walk being 29 km. and the toughest an almost vertical climb of 3 km. The Spirituality was enhanced by the beautiful scenery, warm weather, with only a solitary downpour to dampen spirits but the interaction with other pilgrims along the way all helped to make this a very special and moving experience for those that made the journey. The final 16km from Siguero to Santiago was completed on Thursday 30th of September For more on this journey and the experiences of those that took part, please
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October 2010 |
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25/10/2010 “THE MALTESE” LEGACY OF THE KNIGHTSOF ST. JOHN
Today was the first of a series of lectures being organized by Comm. Salvator Mousu under the auspices of MASMOM .
In his introduction Comm. Salvator Mousu’ described the arrival of the Knights of the Order to Malta as the most important date in the history of Malta. He then went on to introduce the speaker for the night, Marquis de Piro. The Marquis delivered a well researched and interesting talk on the Furnishings of the Knights and their Influence on Maltese Taste. He expanded on the theme touched upon by Comm. Salvatore Mousu’ in his introduction and went on the give examples of the Influences not only on furnishings but also on Maltese style, culture and nationalism including quality of the workmanship for which Maltese craftsmen had become renown.   These lectures are opened to the public and for this first lecture, there was a good attendance both from members of the Order as well as members of the public.
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21/10/2010 Feast of St Ursula
  Holy Mass was celebrated on the Feast Day of St. Ursula. H.E. The Apostolic Nuncio Mgr Tomaso Caputo, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, was the main celebrant and was assisted by our chaplains and other priests.   Our Association’s President H.E. Dr Philip Farrugia Randon attended together with other members of the Association who were also present.
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13/10/2010 Feast of Blessed Gerard
  Holy Mass was celebrated by our Principal Chaplain The Very Revd Mgr Lawrence Gatt Conventual Chaplain ad honorem, in the Monastery of the cloistered sisters of St. Ursula, to commemorate the feast of Blessed Gerard, the founder of our Order and was assisted by Canon John Azzopardi, Fr George Aquilina, Fr Savio Vella, Fr David Gauci and Fr Anton Borg.   Comm. Anthony Miceli Demajo read the first and second reading was read by Anthony Critien    
and MASMOM President H.E. Dr. Philip Farrugia Randon read the prayer of the Order at the end of Holy Mass.
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17/09/2010 - 23/09/2010 Stage In Lourdes For the third year in succession a group of ten members of the various MASMOM organisations undertook a stage with Hospitalité in Lourdes. The group was again made up of Members of MASMOM and VOTO, with unfortunately, no representative from FOTO this year. Most of those present this year were undertaking their third stage, although some were on their second, having missed last year. There was also one lonely tenderfoot doing the first stage!  The duties were much the same as they usually are. Those working at the railway station mainly ensure the malades, are transported to the accueils. This means unloading the wheelchair bound as well as the occasional ambulance wagon of the various pilgrimages coming from all over Europe. Other duties include working in the baths, as well as organising the reception of those wishing to bathe, especially the wheelchair and stretcher cases. The various functions need to be marshalled, and evening duties included this activity ensuring processions, especially the nightly ‘flambeau’, went off not only without a hitch but with the thousands that regularly attend this beautiful ceremony feeling they have participated in this extraordinary service in an orderly and devoted way. Pilgrimages visiting Lourdes usually consist of quite numerous contingents and invariably include many malades with serious conditions. The ability of the Maltese, all of whom speak at least two but usually three and sometimes even more languages, was yet again a great asset.  Although most of the stagaires attend the annual MASMOM pilgrimage to Lourdes in May of every year, they find the stage experience to be quite different, as well as complimentary to the work they do in May. Doing stage helps one to get to know Lourdes from a different perspective, not only adding to their appreciation of what a special place Lourdes is, but also the practical aspects enabling them to better assist pilgrims while there. It is also a great pleasure to be able to contribute, in a small way, to the wonderful work of Hospitalité de Lourdes, without whom no pilgrimage could take place, thus doing Stage and qualifying as an hospitalier, with its distinctive silver medal suspended from a light blue ribbon and upside down cross is also useful for our own MASMOM Pilgrimage. As such it is the only non SMOM medal one is permitted to wear on the SMOM uniform. There is also time for ones personal experience and making time for oneself which is sometimes hard to achieve during the rush, hustle and bustle of our annual SMOM pilgrimage.  Special thanks are again due to Fr. Savio Vella SDB who celebrated Holy Mass for the stagaires as well as the occasional additional Maltese we bumped into, which this year again included Neville and Liz Curmi. It was a fulfilling and precious experience as the short sermons he gave followed a sequence and were very much to the point! Fr Savio also led the evening Rosary which we had the good fortune to recite in the Grotto.
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09/10/2010 MASMOM’s President and Knight Resident at Fort St Angelo The Circle Malta’s premier monthly magazine and distributed with the Sunday Times of Malta carried an extensive interview with both our President H.E. Dr Philip Farrugia Randon and the Resident Knight Frà John Critien, Knight Resident in Malta.
( Photograph by Tony Mangion reproduced by kind permission of the Sunday Circle ) In the interview Frà John Critien explained that although the Order has a history dating back many centuries , it remains loyal to the fundamental principles that the Order was founded on, that of defending the Faith and to help the sick and the poor. Frà John went on to say that the Order , whilst remaining a religious Order of the Catholic Church also carries out all the roles and functions of a Sovereign State maintaining amongst other things, diplomatic relations with over 100 countries world wide whilst also having observer status at the United Nations. He explained that the twelve thousand members of the Order are involved in humanitarian aid on a global scale in some of the poorest and economically desperate countries around the world. From when he first arrived in Malta in December 2000 till today Frà John Critien has overseen the steady rehabilitation of Fort St Angelo, his magnificent fortress home overlooking the Grand Harbour with it’s spectacular backdrop, the City of Valletta itself. Frà John is one of sixty professed knights who has taken religious vows, namely those of chastity, poverty and obedience. He had originally joined the Order in 1983 and took his vows ten years later. He was accorded a singular honour to be called to serve on the Sovereign Council that sits in the Rome headquarters and since coming to Malta now serves as an advisor.
( Photograph by Alan Carville reproduced by kind permission of the Sunday Circle) In his interview The President of the Malta Association, H.E. Dr. Philip Farrugia Randon, concurred with the sentiments expressed by Frà John when he said that the Order is passing through a renaissance period and has come full circle back to it’s origins : that of caring for the sick and helping the poor. During his Presidency he aims to show the real nature of the Order as represented by 104 knights and dames that make up the local Association. He stressed that being a Knight is a philosophy of life and it is the start of something new, not the end . He listed the many activities members are quietly actively engaged in, be it helping at Boffa Hospital or entertaining the aged to tea in the grounds of Verdala Castle. Amongst the most onerous of all the activities that are organized is the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes where the Malta Association joins 7000 members from different Association from around the world. Apart from the members and volunteers the Malta Association also take with them as many as 50 malades who all have to be tended and cared for by teams of volunteer doctors, nurses, volunteers. Whether it is scrubbing floors or pushing wheelchairs the work is carried out by everybody no matter their rank and title. H.E. had joined the Order in the year 2000 and was elected President last year. He explained that people that are selected and invited to join the Order are generally those people that have shown themselves to be true to the faith of the Catholic Church and who have also shown that they done good in society. They should be able to demonstrate that they can abide by the singular code of conduct, that of the Gospels and the teachings of the Church. He praised the unstinting work of VOTO and FOTO. Finally both HE and Frà John went on to explain that the Order and local Associations need money both for their own administration as well as for their philanthropic works. Money raised at fund raising activities all go to help the needy because the Order itself is non profit making and has no interest in accumulating wealth. Their final words were directed at how the Order, whilst respecting the traditions of it’s past has also been able to adapt itself to current times, thereby ensuring its’ survival into the 21st century. |
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30/09/2010 - 04/10/2010 Association members attend International Pilgrimage
A contingent of seventeen members and volunteers of the Association, led by the President and several members of the Council, joined the Order’s international pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
Venerated since antiquity as the burial site of St. James the Elder – one of the Apostles closest to Our Saviour – this is one of the Catholic Church’s most treasured pilgrimage destinations.  Five of the participants started their pilgrimage in the most traditional way, by walking over a hundred kilometres, braving inclement weather and podiatric challenges to boot – but more on that elsewhere. Most of the Maltese participants started their pilgrimage in Rome, where they joined the chartered flight organised by the Venerable Langue of Italy. Immediately upon arrival, the entire group was transferred to the famous Monte del Gozo – a significant stop on the traditional Camino, offering pilgrims their first glimpse of Santiago Cathedral.
A symbolic five kilometre walk followed, concluded with the celebration of Holy Mass in the Monastery of St Martin Pinario – a marvellous example of Galician baroque architecture. A ceremony of the washing of the pilgrims’ feet was led by His Most Eminent Highness the Grand Master.     The following day saw pilgrims visit the coastal town of Muxìa, and the celebration of Holy Mass in the Sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, known as Nuestra Señora de la Barca. Our Lady appeared to St James there inside a boat made of stone.
The afternoon’s activities ended with a visit to Finisterre, the final stop on the Santiago Camino. Derived from the Latin fines terrae, meaning “the end of the earth”, this place was so named because, in mediaeval times, it was thought to be just that. Pilgrims traditionally burn or discard an item of clothing here as a symbol of cleansing and the removal of old burdens.   The evening was rounded off with a gala dinner at the magnificent Parador de los Reyes Catolicos.   The pilgrimage’s closing ceremony was held on Sunday in the Santiago Cathedral itself, with Solemn High Mass celebrated by H.G. The Archbishop of Santiago. Mr Francis J. Vassallo was asked to read the bidding prayers – in celebration of his birthday!  
The breathtaking Botafumeiro ceremony was held at the very end of Mass. This magnificent 80 kg thurible, the largest in the world, is swung by eight highly skilled tiraboleiros, who manage – by brute force and a clever pulley mechanism – to swing this huge censer almost all the way to the roof of the transept. This ancient custom is, of course, intended as a symbol of religious purification, although its sheer size, and the vast clouds of incense it produces, was said to help to mask the unpleasant smells which emanated from the masses of unwashed pilgrims.
The pilgrimage was held as part of the Jacobean year celebrations – held whenever the feast of St James (the 25th July) falls on a Sunday. Two hundred and fifty members and volunteers from all over the world participated.
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September 2010 |
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22/09/2010 The Infant Jesus of Prague  The Maltese Association together with the Consulate for the Czech Republic in Malta and the Associations that support the rights of the unborn child, celebrated the fourth anniversary of the arrival of the Statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague to Malta. This statue was donated by the Consulate of the Czech Republic, venerated as the Protector of the Unborn Child and is permanently adored at the Church of Our Lady of Victory in Victory Square Valletta, next door to Casa Lanfreducci the seat of the Maltese Association of the Order of Malta. This yearly event has become an important date in the calendar of the Order and is always well supported by the membership. This year for the 4th Anniversary, we were honoured to have the presence of His Grace Mgr Paul Cremona which was the first time that an Archbishop led the anniversary celebration.  
The celebrations commenced at 18.30 with the arrival of His Grace at the church and where he was met by the President Philip Farrugia Randon and The Chancellor. After a short blessing ceremony led by His Grace Mgr Paul Cremona, the President of our Association and about thirty members of our members and invited guests, processed around the streets of Valletta. The Archbishop was immediately in front of the Infant Jesus, whilst four of our members carried the statue. The Laudate Pueri choir under the direction of The Rev Canon George Frendo accompanied the pilgrimage, singing hymns of praise throughout.   Earlier there had been some concerns about the threatening weather. This year the anniversary celebration had been brought forward by a month as last years outdoor celebration had to be cancelled due bad weather. Fortuitously the weather brightened up and the pilgrimage as able to proceed as planned.
  After walking down part of Merchant Street and back up Republic Street, the pilgrimage returned to Our Lady of Victories Church in Victories Square and beautifully decorated for the occasion with white flowers. His Grace The Archbishop accompanied by members of the reverend clergy that included members of our Association, then celebrated High Mass. The choir’s angelic like singing provided a magnificent backdrop to such a solemn, moving and intimate service.
  During the homily, His Grace stressed how pleased he was that MASMOM had associated with the cause of the unborn child. He emphasised the value of human life and the respect that each and every one of should have not only for the born but also for the unborn in the womb.
Kevin Dingli and Carmel Mallia read the first and second lessons whilst Martin Micallef read the bidding prayers.
  At the end of High Mass, Philip Farrugia Randon, President of the Maltese Association read the Prayer of the Order and in a short address, thanked His Grace for honouring us with his presence and leading this pilgrimage. After Mass had ended, His Grace led the celebration of benediction again accompanied by singing from the choir.
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22/09/2010
Unveiling of the Coat of Arms over the  At the end of the Church service members of the Association , VIPs and invited guests then assembled at the bottom of the steps leading up to the main door of Casa Lanfreducci for the official unveiling ceremony of the Coat of Arms that had recently been placed over the main door.   This Coat of Arms is the work of sculptor Joseph D’Amato and is another beautiful example of skilled workmanship in his chosen craft. H.G. Mgr Cremona, H.E. Philip Farrugia Randon and Joseph D’Amato stood at the entrance and the sculpture was unveiled accompanied by loud applause.
Presentation of the late His Eminence Tomas, Following this short ceremony everybody was invited to a reception at Casa Lanfreducci. At the beginning of the reception The Chancellor presented His Eminence Tomas, Cardinal Spidlik’s zucchetto. The Cardinal had been instrumental in presenting the replica of the Statue of The Infant Jesus to Malta and his zucchetto will be a treasured piece of memorabilia at Casa Lanfreducci.
  Those present then adjourned to the conference hall at Casa Lanfreducci, where Members and guests able to enjoy drinks and beautifully prepared snacks to round of what had been a very successful and special and memorable event.  
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08/09/2010 Our Lady of Victories To day Malta celebrated the feast of Our Lady of Victories one of the most important days in the Order’s calendar, and a National Holiday. On the 8th September Malta commemorates the victory during the invasion of 1565 as well as the victories during the First and Second World Wars. Members of the Association led by His Excellency, The President of our Association, Philip Farrugia Randon, collected in the sacristy of St John’s Co-Cathederal for the usual robbing and preparation for the celebration of High Mass. The Association started the proceedings by leading the procession followed by the reverend clergy and Archbishop Cremona to the high alter. Our Association members were seated down the side of the Cathedral that was full with invited guests and members of the congregation.  The first and second reading were read by The Chancellor and the Hospitaler whilst Josephine Farrugia Randon read the bidding prayers.   The Archbishop in his homily to the Nation touched on the subject of cultural progress results from action inspired by values routed in conscience well formed by faith in Christ. At the end of mass the Te Deum was recited followed by the National Anthem after which the Association processed back to the sacristy.
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07/09/2010 St John’s Co Cathederal Members of the Association led by His Excellency Philip Farrugia Randon this morning took part in the traditional event in remembrance of those gallant Knights of the Order who paid the ultimate price in the defense of this Island against the Turkish Invasion. High Mass at St. John’s Co Cathedral was con-celebrated by Mons Calleja assisted by other member of the Revered Clergy . Prior to the final blessing at the end of mass, the members of the Order followed by the Reverend Clergy , processed to the The Great Siege Memorial Graveyard to the side of the church, where prayers of remembrance were offered for the repose of the souls of those Knights who had lost their lives in defense of Christianity, after which His Excellency President Philip then proceeded to lay a wreath at the memorial. The procession then moved back inside the Co-Cathedral to the grave of one of the great heroes of the Great Siege, Fra Don Melchior de Robles and which is situated in the Chapel of the Langue of Auvergne where prayers were again offered for the repose of his soul, before then processing for a memorial prayer at the tomb of Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vallette. Mass was then concluded and the members processed back to the Sacristy.
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August 2010 |
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26/08/2010 FOTO Fund Raising Dinner   The delightful moon lit grounds of Villa Igea, Alfred and Simone Mangion’s residence in Madliena, provided a beautiful setting for this year’s FOTO Fundraising dinner. After an aperitif , around 140 persons sat down to a superb meal mainly prepared by the members and some friends. Paul Lawrence Attard and his team once again rose splendidly to the occasion with service of the highest standard. Manuel and his guitar provided entertainment with a sixties repertoire. An auction of some four paintings including one by SMOM President Philip, and a week’s stay in a luxury holiday home in Spain offered by Jacqui and Stephen Vassallo was very ably conducted by Fra John Critien. Our seasoned auctioneer managed to coax plenty of €uros from those present with his delightful manner accompanying his outstretched hand. The raffle which followed included a variety of exciting prizes.   In her speech President Mary Ann thanked Simone and Alfred for opening their house for the occasion. She also thanked all the sponsors, donors of gifts and all those who gave their services for free but inadvertently forgot to mention her committee who worked so hard to make the evening a huge success. A big thank you therefore to Ann-Marie, Amy, Marguerite, and Jackie. Finally MaryAnn explained that the major part of the proceeds from this event would again go towards the Lourdes Pilgrimage. In 2010 FOTO was able to sponsor eight patients and three volunteers and thus hoped that it would reach or surpass the same target next year. In his reply SMOM President Philip thanked the ladies of FOTO for their marvellous initiative which once again was clearly very successful indeed
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16/08/2010
State Funeral of the Confrere Guido De Marco  Our Association was honoured with an invitation to participate in the state funeral of our late confrere President Emeritus Professor Guido De Marco Baliff, Grand Cross of Honour and Devotion , who passed away on Thursday 12th August. Close to 70 members gathered for robing in St. Johns Co-Cathedral and led by The President of MASMOM His Excellency Dr. Philp Farrugia Randon, , processed down Republic Street to the Palace, where the President Emeritus had been lying in state for the official mourning period. Amongst those members taking part in the procession was the Knight Resident His Execellency Fra John Edward Critien. Once reaching the Palace, the members formed part of the funeral cortege and with the late President Emeritus’s body laying atop a gun carriage, followed by his widow Violet, his immediate family and chief mourners, processed back up to St. Johns Co-Cathedral immediately following the AFM band.  Back at the Co-Cathedral, Members processed down the aisle of the packed church and took their places in an abse to the right hand side of the High Alter. Solemn high mass was concelebrated by His Grace Archbishop Mons Paul Cremona along with the His Lordship Mario Grech, Bishop of Gozo, the Archbishop Emeritus Mons Joseph Mercieca and members of the Reverend Clergy amongst whom were members of our Association.  At the end of the mass the Professor De Marco’s body was brought out of the Cathedral accompanied by applause from the large crowd and once again placed atop the gun carriage. The funeral cortege consisting of a guard of honour, followed by the band of the AFM, our Association, chief mourners and family members then processed up Merchant street and down Girolomu Cassar Avenue to the Floriana War memorial for the final salute before the private cortege then proceeded by road towards the Cemetery where he was laid to rest in a private burial service.  Members were all touched by the service and felt privileged at having been given the opportunity to bid farewell to a beloved and well respected confrere in such a moving event and historic occasion for the Maltese Association. Those members that had been in Lourdes for this years’s pilgrimage will remember him for his usual good humour, high spirits and willingness to befriend all around him. RIP.
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April 2010 |
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10/04/2010 Lourdes Fund Raising Lunch
The Maltese Association organised a fundraising lunch at the Radission Bay Point Hotel in St. Julians, in aid of the forthcoming Lourdes Pilgrimage.
The President, HE Dr Philip Farrugia Randon welcomed the guests and the Chancellor and Pilgrimage Director, Marchesino Daniel de Petri Testaferrata gave a briefing on the Lourdes Pilgrimage.
Holy Mass was celebrated at 12.00 by Fr David Gauci. Lunch was served immediately after Holy Mass.
Photos JD'A About 115 members, volunteers and pilgrims participated in this event. |
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04/04/2010 Donation of Defibrillator The Malta Heart Foundation has donated an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to the Order of Malta Gozo Volunteers. A defibrillator is a lifesaving device that delivers a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to the affected heart. The latest technology has provided humanity with such automated devices which can be utilized by basic first aiders and even members of the public. The Order of Malta has also got several personnel who are professionals in this field. The Maltese Association intends to utilize this lifesaving equipment for the Lourdes Pilgrimage and other functions where medical emergencies can occur. The SMOM Gozo volunteers are also present during activities for the elderly and relief programmes. The Gozo Volunteers have also been present on standby during the Victoria Good Friday processions where devout Catholic followers walk with chains tied to their feet or barefoot during the procession. The Order of Malta also helped organize transport for elderly persons who wished to be present for such religious functions. Some 2 procession participants needed medical assistance, but fortunately the AED was not needed. The AED is always available to members of the Order when needed and can also be utilized swiftly when the Maltese Association responds to national contingencies. CG |
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March 2010 |
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26-28/03/2010 Annual Lenten Spiritual Retreat
The Lenten Weekend Spiritual Retreat was held on the 26th, 27th and 28th March at the Archbishop’s Seminary Retreat House in Tal-Virtù, Rabat. The sermons were delivered by the Very Rev. Mgr Anton Gouder, Pro-Vicar General, (above).
Over forty MASMOM members and members of the voluntary groups participated in this spiritual retreat, excellently organised by MASMOM Vice-President Comm Anthony Miceli Demajo. Members of the Order al Merito Melitense also participated.
Above: Praying The Way of The Cross on Saturday afternoon |
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19/03/2010 Corporate Social Responsibility Day
Villa Chelsea Redecoration
On the occasion of the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, the Maltese Association, joined a number of other organisations in a day-long activity to help in the redecoration of several Charity Homes. Holy Mass for all the corporate volunteers was held at 8.30 am at the Chapel of Dar Qalb ta' Gesu in Santa Venera. Coffee was served immediately afterwards.
The MASMOM helpers, together with the HSBC Group were allocated Villa Chelsea in Birkirkara as their chosen charity home.
Mrs Kate Gonzi - the Prime Minister's wife - and HG the Archbishop of Malta, Mgr Paul Cremona OP, visited Villa Chelsea in the morning and saw the works being carried out.
Photos:JD'A
The work was divided in the following categories: painting of walls, furniture, doors and windows; general cleaning; sewing and gardening.
It was amazing to see so many helpers working in harmony, managing to give the entire place a facelift in one day.
MASMOM members and volunteers actively participated in this event. |
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10/03/2010 VOTO Lenten Talk
On the 10 March 2010, VOTO (the Volunteers Of The Order) held a Lenten talk for its members. Originally organised at Osanna Pia Youth Hostel, this had to be moved at the 11th hour to St Patricks due space limitations arising from the positive response of attendees confirming their attendance.
Fr Savio kept his flock glued to every word. His exposition on the meaning of the “Incarnation of God” and the implications thereof in our everyday life, as well as the true meaning of being a Christian was both insightful and extremely challenging.
This talk is planned to be the first of a series of talks that will be organised by VOTO for its members. The aim of these talks is to help members to understand the true meaning of being a Christian, and how to live one’s life as a sincere Christian with the final aim of getting closer to God. MES |
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7/03/2010 FOTO Fund Raising Lunch
FOTO organised their traditional fund raising buffet curry lunch for their members and spouses. This year the venue chosen for this well attended event was the Casino Maltese, in Sliema.
Holy Mass was celebrated by The Very Reverend Canon Karm Busuttil at noon and after Mass the guests were treated to a welcome drink and assorted canapés.
A scrumptious curry buffet lunch followed. The food and desserts were exquisitely prepared by the FOTO ladies themselves.
The Friends of the Order (FOTO), are a voluntary branch of the Maltese Association of the Order of Malta, consisting of the wives of members and also Dames.
Anne Marie Gauci Maistre, FOTO Chairperson, addressed the guests and explained how the proceeds from this event will be utilised. She thanked the benefactors and all those who helped to make the activity a success.
Above right: Dr Joseph Pace drawing the raffle tickets for the gifts that were donated to FOTO for this occasion and on the left: one of the lucky winners claiming her prize. |
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5/03/2010 First Friday Mass
The First Friday Holy Mass was celebrated by our Principal Chaplain, The Very Rev Mgr Lawrence Gatt, Conventual Chaplain Grand Cross ad honorem at Our Lady of Victory Church in Valletta at 18.00hrs. The Very Reverend Canon Karm Busuttil concelebrated. This month the Holy Mass was offered for the repose of the souls of Nathalie Bianchi, Lina Frendo and Harold Bartoli. Refreshments followed at Casa Lanfreducci. |
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February 2010 |
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17/02/2010 Ash Wednesday Mass
In line with an annual tradition, the Maltese Association was invited by the Archpriest of Birgu, the Very Reverend Canon Joseph Caruana and Collegiate Chapter of St Lawrence Church, to Holy Mass on Ash Wednesday.
The event started with a procession with the revered Reliquary of the Holy Face of Christ, from the monastery of Santa Scolastica, through the main streets of Birgu, to the parish church of St Lawrence.
Canon Joseph Caruana led the ceremony of the placing of ashes on the foreheads of the sizeable congregation during ths mass.
The mass ended with a procession to the chapel of the Holy Crucifix on the right side of the church, where the congregation followed the members present, in the ritual of the kissing of the reliquary.
The venerated reliquary consists of an icon of Our Lord's face, surrounded by twenty recesses covered in glass, containing relics of our Lord's Passion, such as pieces of thorns, pieces of the pillar and of the cross. This reliquary was donated to SttLawrence Church by Inquisitor Mons Paolo Passionei (1743-1754) in 1753 and is only exposed for veneration on occasions.
H.E. Fra John Edward Critien, Knight Resident at Fort St Angelo participated in the religious celebration. |
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10/02/2010 Din L-Art Helwa Commemorative Mass St. Paul’s Chapel, St. Paul’s Bay
The President and Council of Din l-Art Helwa invited the Association to participate in their activities to commemorate the 400th Anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone of the Wignacourt Tower.
Holy Mass was celebrated at St Paul’s Chapel, St Paul’s Bay, at noon.
After Mass, a commemorative plaque was unveiled in the Wignacourt Tower, by Judge Maurice Caruana Curran, Founder President of Din l-Art Helwa.
Above: the restored room on the top floor of the tower.
A reception at Wignacourt Tower concluded this event.
Above: the left and right breath taking views from the rooftoop of the tower
Above left: Dr Stanley Farrugia Randon MD, Din l-Art Helwa council member, presented a book to Architect Graziella Galea, St Paul's Bay Mayor. Right, centre: Dr Farrugia Randon is cutting the cake with the volunteers that look after the tower. |
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5/02/2010 First Friday Mass
The First Friday Holy Mass was celebrated by our Principal Chaplain, The Very Rev Mgr Lawrence Gatt, Conventual Chaplain Grand Cross ad honorem at Our Lady of Victory Church in Valletta at 18.00hrs.
This month the Holy Mass was celebrated in memory of the late Mgr John Dimech, who had dedicated so much effort to his role as Principal Chaplain of the Maltese Association. Members of the Dimech family, as well as close friends of Dun Gwann participated in the Mass.
A group of Austrian members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem who are visiting Malta this week, were invited and joined us in the liturgical celebration. Mr Victor Licari, Lieutenant of the Maltese branch of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre, was also invited and met his Austrian confreres.
Photos: JdA
After the religious service light refreshments were served at Casa Lanfreducci. |
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January 2010 |
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17/01/2010 FUN DAY EVENT
DOLMEN HOTEL BUGIBBA – SUNDAY – 17th JANUARY 2010
A Fund Day Event was organized by MASMOM.
Coaches picked up the special guests from two locations in Malta and they were taken to the Dolmen Hotel in Bugibba, the venue for this event.
At 10.30, Holy Mass was celebrated by our
Magistral Chaplain, Mgr Paul Carmel Vella.
This was followed by a Tea and Coffee break, with singing by Philippa Farrugia Randon and music by Dr Kevin Dingli and Mr Paul Sultana.
A three course Buffet Lunch was served at the Menhier Restaurant in the Hotel.
Fra Richard Divall and Fra Richard Cheffins, both currently in Malta, also participated in this event.
After lunch the performance by Magician Brian Rolé entertained all those present – with both young and old participants trying to catch him out or copy his tricks. Needless to say, none of them succeeded.
The animation team then took over and this is when the fun reached its best moment: face painting, balloon twisting, games, and most of all, the dancing.
Young, old, children, volunteers and helpers crammed the dance floor, giving it all they’ve got. The twisting, singing, jumping and the latest fancy dance moves were enjoyed by all.
Coffee and sweets were later served. Dr. Philip Farrugia Randon, MASMOM President, thanked the sponsors and organizers - especially Comm Tonio Casapinta and Mrs Nadya Chetcuti, without whose enthusiasm, this event would not have been possible.
Presents were also given to the children and families at the end of the day, before they went back to their coaches to be taken back home.
It was gratifying to see the smiles on the faces, the laughter, the participation, everybody enjoying himself. MASMOM’s aim was reached - the activity was a huge success, all their various problems being put aside for the day. |
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16 January 2010 Investiture Ceremony
An Investiture ceremony was held during Holy Mass celebrated by Mgr Lawrence Gatt, Conventual Chaplain Grand Cross ad Honorem, at the Oratory, St John's Co-Cathedral, in Valletta at 16.30hrs. The ceremony was presided over by HE Dr Philip Farrugia Randon, President of the Maltese Association.
The members to be invested processed to the Oratory under the guidance of the Chancellor, Marchesino Daniel Gera de Petri Testaferrata, and took their seats.
All the other members present, processed from the sacristy in inverse order of rank, led by the Standard-Bearer of the Association.
The Chancellor read the brevet issued by the Grand Chancery, and Mgr Lawrence Gatt blessed the insignia.
Their Excellencies Frá John Critien, Frá Richard Cheffins and Frá Richard Divall also participated in the ceremony.
After the sermon, the Veni Creator Spiritus was sung and the President conferred the insignia on behalf of the Prince and Grand Master, HMEH Frá Matthew Festing.
Donati of Devotion
The Most Noble Amy Bugeja Fontani
Promotion
Mrs Helen Farrugia Randon
Promise Of Obedience Admissions to the Second Class
Knight Grand Cross of Magistral Grace in Obedience
H.E. Amb. Antonio Ganado GCSGM
Knights of Magistral Grace in Obedience
H.E. Dr Philip Farrugia Randon
Mr Alexander Caruana Soler
Mr John Gauci Maistre
Mr Paul K Sultana The Mass then continued in the usual way. At the end of the ceremony, the President followed the Standard-Bearer of the Association, who led the Procession out of the Oratory and back to the Sacristy, where a group photo was taken.
A reception was later held at Casa Lanfreducci for the newly invested, their families, members, volunteers and guests. |
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HAITI: MALTESER INTERNATIONAL RESPONDS TO DEVASTATING EARTHQUAKE
Port-au-Prince, 13 January 2010 Medical team leave for emergency relief in the disaster region
A 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Haiti in
the late evening yesterday, with reports giving many hundreds dead,
thousands injured and leaving countless people homeless. Grey dust covers
the area where as yet an unknown number of buildings and homes have been
destroyed. There is significant damage to the infrastructure, roads and the
communication system.
“Due to the soil erosion, our capital lacks a
solid base. With mudslides following the earthquake, the slums built on the
hills have completely slipped off,” reports Eduard Aimé from Haiti. “Even
the more solid buildings like the presidential palace, the ministries and
the cathedral have been severely damaged.” For 15 years the Order of Malta, through its Associations in the United States, has been supporting a hospital (Hôpital Sacré Coeur, Milot) in the north of Haiti, the poorest country in the Western hemisphere. The 73-bed hospital is the only one in the region. In 2008, Hôpital Sacré Coeur treated 56,000 outpatients, with over 4,100 hospital admissions and 1,262 newborn deliveries. There is no other pharmacy or laboratory in the area, so last year the hospital filled 136,000 prescriptions and completed over 77,000 lab tests. |
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ADDRESS OF THE GRAND MASTER TO THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS
12 January 2010
The Grand Master of the Order of Malta, Fra'
Matthew Festing, received at the Magistral Villa on the Aventine the
Ambassadors of the 104 countries accredited to the Order for the audience of
the beginning of the new Year. |
Malteser International - Order of Malta 
