A Solemn Vigil of Prayer for the Maltese Lieutenancy

On the evening of 15th November 2024, the Maltese Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, led by Lieutenant H.E. Ambassador Roberto Buontempo, held its Vigil of Prayer at the majestic St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral in Mdina.

The solemn ceremony was presided over by Mgr. Joseph Galea-Curmi, Auxiliary Bishop of Malta, who guided the Order in prayer and reflection as part of this sacred tradition.

During this meaningful occasion, ten new Knights and Dames were welcomed into the Order, committing themselves to the noble mission of safeguarding the Holy Land and supporting the Christian communities living there. Additionally, several members were promoted in rank, and special awards were conferred to recognize outstanding contributions to the Order and its mission. Dr. Elena Ruda was also awarded the Cross of Merit for her contributions toward the restoration of artworks in Ta’ Doni Church in Rabat.

This Vigil of Prayer represents the deep faith and dedication that unites all members of the Order in their service to God and their support for the Holy Land.

Photography: Rene Rossignaud Photography

Annual Solemn Investiture Ceremony of the Maltese Lieutenancy

On the 16th November 2024, the Maltese Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem held its Annual Solemn Investiture Ceremony in the breathtaking setting of St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, led by Lieutenant H.E. Ambassador Roberto Buontempo.

This prestigious event marked a significant moment in the Order’s calendar as ten new members were formally admitted as Knights and Dames, and existing members were recognized with promotions in rank.

The ceremony was officiated by His Grace Monsignor Charles Jude Scicluna, Archbishop of Malta and Grand Prior of the Maltese Lieutenancy, who received the Gold Palm of Jerusalem, the Order’s highest honour, in recognition of his outstanding service to the Church and the Order.

Special Honoree

• Dr. Michael Frendo, Chairman of St John’s Malta and head of the Venerable Order of St John of Jerusalem in Malta, received the Cross of Merit for fostering strong relations with the Equestrian Order.

Dignitaries in Attendance

This year’s ceremony welcomed numerous international dignitaries, including His Excellency Ambassador Leonardo Visconti di Modrone, Governor General of the Order. For the first time, American Lieutenants, Valencia Yvonne Camp (Washington USA) and Colin Saldanha (Toronto Canada), joined representatives from across Europe and beyond, adding an international dimension to the event.

The celebration concluded with a luncheon at the Casino Maltese, during which generous funds were raised to support the Order’s charitable mission in the Holy Land, ensuring continued aid to Christian and Muslim families in need during these challenging times.

Photography: Rene Rossignaud Photography

Rabat Sacrum event

As part of the Rabat Sacrum event and in collaboration with the Rabat Local Council, we were pleased to host at our Ta’ Doni Church an art exhibition by artist Ray Piscopo. The event continued with two exceptional concerts, featuring performances by Dame Lydia Buttigieg on the harp, violinist Edwina Cini, and soprano Danielle Ciantar.

Remembrance of Our Dearly Departed

Our Order, led by Lieutenant Amb. Roberto Buontempo, organised a Remembrance of Our Dearly Departed at the Monastery of Santa Caterina in Valletta.

Monsignor Knight Patrick Incorvaja celebrated Mass and officiated the prayers in the monastery’s solemn crypt.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Spiritual and Events Commissions, and in particular to Mother Abbess Michelina Mifsud, OSA, for graciously hosting us during this meaningful occasion.

Event at Casa Lanfreducci

It was an honor to join a special gathering of knights and dames of the Holy Sepulchre from the Netherlands and Malta, led by Lieutenants Jan Krapels and Roberto Buontempo. The Dutch members were on a meaningful pilgrimage through Malta, retracing the footsteps of St. Paul.

Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Michael Grech, president of SMOM in Malta, for graciously hosting us at the magnificent Casa Lanfreducci in Valletta. Deep gratitude also goes to Dr. Dane Munro for helping make this gathering possible.

This event was a wonderful example of collaboration between the Order of Malta and the EOHSJ, showcasing the strength of our shared mission. Special thanks as well to the Events Commission of the Maltese Lieutenancy for their impeccable organization.

Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary

Members and postulants of our Order were invited to participate in the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary at Senglea. The invitation came from Rev. Can. Knight Robin Camilleri

There was a Mass followed by a procession, which included the participation of the Rosary Brotherhood and children who would be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. After the procession, a Eucharistic celebration was held.

The Rosary prayer was dedicated to the intention of world peace.

Austria Investiture

Our Lieutenant, Amb. Roberto Buontempo, was invited to Austria. The invitation was extended by the Lieutenant of Austria, Dr. Andreas Leiner, who was presiding over his last investiture before his term as Lieutenant ends in December.

The investiture took place in the magnificent Klosterneuburg Abbey.

Investiture in Poland

At the invitation of Comm. Stanislaw Osmenda, President of the Organising Committee, and Comm. Dr. Andrzej Sznajder, Lieutenant for Poland, a delegation from Malta, led by the Lieutenant, Ambassador Roberto Buontempo, participated in the 8th Miechov Days of Jerusalem. The event took place in Miechov, under the patronage of Cardinal Grand Master Fernando Filoni, along with Fra Francesco Patton, Custos of the Holy Land. Several dignitaries from the Order were in attendance, including Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz, Primate of Poland, and Jean Pierre de Glutz-Ruchti, Vice Governor General. All participants were awarded the Pilgrim’s Cross, which is conferred in two categories: the Knight Grand Cross and the Cross of Devotion.

Before the event, the Maltese delegation made an official visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where Ambassador Buontempo paid his respects by placing a candle at the Death Wall.

Accompanying the Lieutenant were his spouse, Josette Buontempo, Lay Master of Ceremonies Michael Pace Ross and his spouse, Postulant Lucienne Pace Ross.