On August 14th, Frá Jean-Louis Mainguy died. He was 71. Jean-Louis was a solemnly professed member of the Order of Saint John (2014), a Knight of Justice. In the Order of Malta he was a member of the First Class.
What is noteworthy for me is that he was born in Beruit. An Eastern Catholic member of the Order of Malta being Maronite. He was only Professed Knight of Solemn Vows who lived and worked in the Middle East for nine centuries.
The religious superior of the Fraters, Frá John Dunlap said, “Fra’ Jean-Louis was a model of faith, dedication, and service, with the title of the first Professed Knight in Lebanon and a resident knight in Malta. His tireless commitment to the service of the Order and his noble spirit will remain etched in our hearts.”
The announcement of Frá Jean-Louis’ death is noted here by the Order of Malta. Here is an article on Jean-Louis here.
The Grand Priory of England noted two things about Jean-Louis that I want bring to our attention here:
1. “His distinguished work as an architect/interior designer and scenographer of spaces, stage and cinema, was recognised nationally and internationally.
2. “Profoundly spiritual … He was a leading light in the Order’s spiritual and humanitarian mission. A man of deep philosophical reflection, he lived a spirituality which was both inspiring and impressive. It was a privilege to have known him and worked with him.
May Our Lady of Sorrows assist Frá Jean-Louis, the Order of Malta, and his family and friends in this time of mourning. May St John the Baptist and Blessed Gerard attend to him. May the memory of Frá Jean-Louis Mainguy be eternal.