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The Volunteers of the Order organised a day trip to Gozo on Saturday, September 28, 2024, for Guests and families who had previously participated in the Annual Lourdes Pilgrimage and International Summer Camps. Approximately 100 Guests and Volunteers attended the event. Participants gathered at Ċirkewwa at 8:00 AM and took the ferry to Gozo. Upon arriving at Mġarr Harbour, transportation was provided by vans from Dar tal-Providenza, OMVG, and private coaches, which brought everyone to the Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary in Għarb. Mons. Brendan Gatt celebrated Mass at 10:30 AM. Afterward, participants had time for prayer and reflection at the Shrine behind the altar before heading to Marsalforn for lunch at Smuggler’s. The group then returned to Mġarr Harbour for the 4:00 PM ferry back to Malta.

Some of the Order of Malta’s Volunteers travelled to Fiesch, Switzerland to participate in the 39th International Summer Camp held between the 11-18th August 2024.

The 39th annual Malta Camp, hosted by the Order of Malta, brought together around 500 young people from 25 countries for a week of unforgettable experiences, bonding, and adventure in Fiesch, Switzerland. Since 1984, this summer tradition has provided an inclusive and supportive environment for participants with disabilities, alongside their dedicated volunteer helpers, to connect, grow, and celebrate. The Summer Camp is an unforgettable experience of cohesion beyond boundaries for all young guests and volunteers which provided amazing possibilities for activities such as a visit of Zermatt, sports games including paragliding, and spiritual gatherings.

The Maltese contingent, departed Malta early Saturday morning, consisted of 20 helpers and guests, led by Team Leader Julia Micallef, and assisted by Rachel Barthet. Mgr Claude Portelli served as the Spiritual Director.

Special thanks go to Ms Lisa Borg from KM Malta Airlines for her kind help during the reservations and checking in of the team.

Building on the success of previous years, a social evening/ fundraising BBQ for current and former Summer Camp attendees, their families, and volunteers was organised on the 13th July 2024. The event began with a mass celebration led by Fr Jean Gove’, followed by welcome drinks and a BBQ at the Marsa Sports Club. The evening was a resounding success, attracting a record 100 guests. This event serves both as a reunion and a fundraising activity, aiming to generate funds for this year’s International Summer Camp, scheduled to take place in Switzerland from August 11-18, 2024.

On June 3rd 2024, a group of 89 guests and 9 volunteers gathered at the Xara Lodge in Rabat for an afternoon of Tombola & Tea. This was in collaboration with MASMOM. Sandwiches, pastizzi, and drinks were served whilst participants enjoyed playing tombola. Various prizes from generous sponsors were awarded to those who won. We are most grateful to Xara Lodge for hosting our Guests and helpers at this event.

The Volunteers of the Order organised a sparkling brunch at the Contessa, at The Phoenicia, Valletta  on Saturday, 25 May 2024. This served as a reunion for those who participated in the Lourdes Pilgrimage. The brunch involved free flowing Prosecco, a selection of delicious entrées followed by a lavish set menu. To close off the brunch, a raffle was drawn and various prizes were won. Many thanks to the 73 attendees that participated and contributed towards the success of this event, as well as to the generous sponsors that donated the raffle prizes.

The Order of Malta’s 66th international pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, France, commenced this weekend. This traditional appointment of the Order’s members and volunteers to accompany our Lords the Sick to the Grotto of Massabielle took place between 2 to 7 May 2024. The Volunteers of the Order have sponsored the children’s programme including all activities held as well as a number of guests participating with the Maltese delegation.

The Volunteers of the Order organised a Lenten talk held on 5 March 2024 by Mgr Brendan Gatt at the Pastoral Centre San Andrija, Mosta. This was very well attended with around 20 members and aspirants present. The talk proved to be a meaningful and enriching experience for all who attended, deepening their understanding of the sacrament of reconciliation and strengthening their spiritual journey during Lent. The evening drew to a close with some light refreshments.

This year’s Ladies Night took place at Vecchia Napoli, Salini on February 7th, 2024. We are grateful to the restaurant owners who graciously provided a special rate for us to be able to once again host this event. A total of 47 guests and volunteers were present.
📷 Doris Aquilina

The Volunteers of the Order organised a Christmas party on December 11th at the Marsa Sports Club, bringing together cherished guests and friends. 100 Guests and Volunteers were present. Participants were served starters of bruschetta and a dip, a selection of pasta for the main course, followed by chocolate cake and coffee. In spirit of the festive season, Santa Claus made an unexpected entrance after dinner, delighting everyone with the distribution of Christmas gifts and hampers kindly donated by the Deloitte Foundation.