The parish welcomed the Order of Malta of the Eastern CT Area today for a meeting of 25 people, Knights, Dames, and Associates and friends. The day included updates on activities of our Eastern CT Area, the work of the Order in the Association, and a brief witness talk by Father Dennis McCarthy, our pastor.
The Divine Liturgy was served by Father Dennis McCarthy and concelebrated by Bishop Peter Rosazza (conventual chaplain) and Father Joseph MacNeill (deputy chaplain).
An incredibly delicious Lenten meal was prepared for us by Joumanna Hajj and her brother Maroun, with the assistance of several others.
The Order of Malta describes itself in this manner:
The Order of St. John of Jerusalem is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. Present in Palestine in around 1050, it is a lay religious Order, traditionally of military, chivalrous, noble nature. Its 13,500 members include Professed Friars and others who have made the promise of obedience. The other Knights and Dames are lay members, devoted to the exercise of Christian virtue and charity. What distinguishes the Knights and Dames of Malta is their commitment to reaching their spiritual perfection within the Church and to expending their energies serving the poor and the sick.
More information here:
~Order of Malta
~Order of Malta American Association
~Order of Malta Eastern CT Area