Hospitallers is published quarterly by the Sovereign military hospitaller order of st. john of jerusalem of rhodes and of malta® AMERICAN ASSOCIATION, U.S.A.

Volume 8 Fall 2011

Lourdes Pilgrimage 3 2012

A Shared Mission – 7 A Shared Response

10 Saint Hugh

Malta Summer Camp: Lignano Sabbiadoro, 13 Italy

Hospitaller Day of Grace and Healing at Notre Dame By Christopher J. Godfrey, JD, KM, Area Chair – Northern Indiana

or every malade remembered at Mass, there is often an unnamed family member caring for him or her. These caregivers often feel iso- lated and alone, especially during long periods of illness and decline. Their well-being was the inspiration for our Day of Grace and Heal- ing at the Grotto of the University of Notre Dame. Modeled after the FLourdes Grotto, this famous place of prayer served as the locus for a re-creation of our Order’s 2011 pilgrimage. Since we couldn’t bring everyone to , we decided to bring a bit of Lourdes to Northern Indiana. In preparing for this event, the best piece of advice came from Mrs. Hope Carter, DM, who suggested enlisting the help of Fr. Robert Dunn, a chaplain of Association Web site: the Westchester Area. This veteran of Lourdes pilgrimages immediately sug- Be sure to go our Web site at www.maltausa.org gested a washing ceremony pursuant to Our Lady’s original instruction. Need- to find the latest information about the Associa- less to say, this required a lot of Lourdes water, and Vicki Riel, DM, and Roberta tion, forms needed for new members and new Ziolkowski, DM, were up to the task. Thanks to them, our guests were all able auxiliary members, Area Web sites and much more to wash in the blessed water. Our guests also received a small gift bag contain- information about the Association and the Order of ing a bottle of Lourdes water, this year’s pilgrimage prayer card and a Malta Malta. Links are also available to other Association prayer book. (continued on page 6) Web sites and the Sovereign Magistry’s Web site. A message from the President

Dear Confreres, BOARD OF COUNCILLORS Howard V. Redgate, t is with hesitation that I write this message as I very much wish our friend Chancellor and Acting President Joe Miller was with us to share his thoughts. So it is with a heavy heart that Mary C. McCooey, Hospitaller I write in his stead. At the conclusion of the summer regional Area Chair Thomas J. Reedy, Vice Hospitaller meetings, a strategic planning committee was formed to examine our Grants James F. O’Connor, Treasurer program. The charge to the committee was to analyze our Grant process Marie L. Garibaldi, Secretary Ifrom three angles: funding, member contributions and Foundation distributions; Thomas F. Carney, Jr. the Grant awards process; and the philosophy behind the Grant awards. The com- P. Castine mittee, chaired by past President Dan Kelly has been provided with provocative Kenneth R. Craig data gathered at the regional meetings and asked to report on their findings at the annual busi- Sheila D. Feitelberg ness meeting in November. Since awarding Grants is a very visible activity of the Order, I think it Christopher J. Godfrey is important to ask our members if we are conducting ourselves as they expect in this important Peter J. Kelly, MD activity or should we consider other methods. The work is challenging and the committee is seri- Peter C. Krause ously deconstructing our current process. We look forward their report. JoAnne M. Kuehner At our regularly scheduled Board meeting held in September several worthwhile actions oc- Carole B. Less cured that I would like to call to your attention: Margaret R. Lyons • Archbishop Dolan appointed Msgr. Robert Ritchie as Coadjutor Assistant Principal Chap- Margaret (Meg) M. Lyons lain of the American Association. Msgr. Ritchie will be working with Msgr Cassidy. Please Peter F. Muratore join me in welcoming Msgr. Ritchie to his new assignment. P. Declan O’Sullivan • Area Chairs were approved in twelve Areas and importantly, the effective date of the assign- Thomas F. Schlafly ment has been moved to the first of the year. The purpose of the date move was to allow the Ellen S. Shafer important fall activities of each Area to conclude under the auspices of the planning Chair. John F. Shine, Ph.D. • The President of our Human Services Foundation, Peter Krause, reported continuing John R. Sise good results with our investment portfolio, stating it enjoys a value of in excess of $9 mil- Joseph Sokolowski, MD lion, net of all withdrawals. Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan, • Our Treasurer, Jim O’Connor reported that revenues for the Association were on target Archbishop of New York, Principal Chaplain and with some deference to timing, expenses were tracking to budget and “overall, the Reverend Monsignor James P. Cassidy, Association is very liquid.” Assistant Principal Chaplain • Secretary Garibaldi explained that in order to have a valid election recognized by the Reverend Monsignor Robert T. Ritchie Order, our president needs to be elected by a majority of votes not the plurality as cur- Coadjutor Assistant Principal Chaplain rently expressed in our by-laws. As such, a request to change our by-laws has been Reverend Monsignor Kevin W. Wallin, included with the election ballot being mailed to all members. Spiritual Advisor to the Board • The youth pilgrimage including 118 Pilgrims was executed seamlessly over three weeks this past summer. It had a budget of $365,000 and was delivered on budget and without incident. As you know this important activity is now officially a “work” of the Order, Board of Directors organized as a Delaware LLC, and all participants over the age of 18 were required to be Malta Human Services Foundation certified in some form of a “safe environment” program. Peter C. Krause,* President Planning for Our Lourdes Pilgrimage is well under way. Please see the article included in this is- William H. Besgen, Vice President sue by Co- Chairs Dr. Dick and Dede Milone. Please note the number of participants in this Pilgrim- Mary Kay Farley, Secretary age will be limited. Your early sign-up will greatly help in planning for this complicated undertaking. John R. Sise,* Treasurer Lastly, please mark your calendars to be in South Florida on St Patrick’s Day weekend next year. Thomas F. Carney, Jr.* That is the site and date of our National Membership Conference. The Conference promises to be a Robert L. Dilenschneider fun and edifying event. Conference Chair Mark Wolff and his committee have worked tirelessly to Robert J. Fredericks, Ph.D. stage a first class occasion. They have lined up challenging content and dynamic speakers, including Honorable Marie L. Garibaldi* our own Most Reverend John Smith. So make your plans to join your confreres in Miami in March. God bless you for all you do for the Order and our Lords the sick and the poor. Mary C. McCooey* John R. Mullen Peter F. Muratore* P. Declan O’Sullivan* Howard V. Redgate* Howard V. Redgate, KM James L. Ryan

Acting President and Chancellor * Member of the American Association Board of Councillors 2 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 lourdes pilgrimage

Lourdes Pilgrimage 2012: “Ave Mar ia” by Dede and Dick Milone, Co-Chairs, 2012 Lourdes Pilgrimage

A sickly 14-year-old peasant girl walking along the stony bank of the River Gave col- lecting firewood becomes separated from her two companions, her younger sister, and her sister’s classmate. Alone, she expe- riences a , a beautiful lady bathed in brilliant light, dressed in a long white dress, and holding a of alabaster and gold. Her face was oval, her eyes blue, and her voice “oh, so sweet.” (continued on page 4)

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 3 lourdes pilgrimage

(continued from page 3) ers, we will journey to Lourdes, and for the next six days we The frightened child wants to make the sign of the cross but will have the opportunity and the grace-filled experience to is unable to lift her hand. The Apparition makes the sign drink at the spring, to bathe in the water, to come in proces- of the cross; eventually the girl does likewise, and together sion, and to pray at the very same grotto where Mary ap- they begin to pray the rosary. Word of the girl’s outlandish peared to Bernadette. experience spreads through the town; many call her a fraud, Our charter flight departs from Newark Liberty Airport some say she is insane, and a on Wednesday, May 2, 2012, flies few believe that her encounter overnight nonstop to Lourdes/ is genuine. The Our Father is a prayer of Tarbes Airport in , and Of course, this is the story needy mortals, tempted and sinful; returns nonstop to Newark on of , and Tuesday, May 8th. We plan this it recounts the first of eigh- and as for the Hail Mary, the year that all pilgrims will travel teen apparitions by Our Lady Apparition had no need to greet together on the charter flight, there to Bernadette at the Grotto in will be no commercial travel, and Lourdes from Thursday, Febru- her own self. that our pilgrimage size will be ary 11, 1858 over the next five slightly smaller, approximately 345 months extending to July 16, pilgrims total. the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. During the course A committee of talented Knights and Dames has already of these apparitions, Our Lady told Bernadette “…to drink begun the detailed planning of this major work of our at the spring and wash in it,” “…to pray,” and “…people are Order. Jack Pohrer and Michael Castine are the Co-Presi- to come here in procession.” dents of the Pilgrimage, the business managers and major We of the Order of Malta have the privilege of doing overseers of the hotels, our charter plane, and the minute these very things asked by Our Lady. On Wednesday May 2, to minute operations in Lourdes. Elissa and Joe Metz, our 2012, accompanied by our beloved malades and their caregiv- Registrars, and Hope Carter, our Coordinating Director, “on

4 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 lourdes pilgrimage the ground” in Lourdes this summer, have scouted our hotel rooms, dining rooms and meeting rooms. Ken Craig and Jack Sise will be organizing the Auxiliary, and Bill Knowles has charge of all of our activities at Newark Airport. Dr. Tom Forlenza and his medical team will be accepting our approximately fifty malades, and next year’s Pilgrimage chairs, JoAnne and Carl Kuehner will be observing every detail, ensuring that the American Association continues this unbroken succession (now 27 years) of magnificent Lourdes Pilgrimages. Our devoted chaplains will be with us from the very beginning at Newark Airport, leading us in prayer, en- couraging us to greater spiritual growth through Morning Prayer, a Morning of Recollection and outstanding homilies and reflections. The Blessing of the Sick, our malades, and all of us who seek healing, is always a moving experience, and the Holy Celebration of the Mass on Saturday morn- ing at the Grotto, at the very place where Mary appeared to Bernadette, will be unforgettable. That Mass is one of the special occasions when we come together in Lourdes with the two other United States Malta Associations, our con- freres and consoeurs from the Federal Association and the Western Association. At the International Mass on Sunday morning, in the massive Pius X Basilica (yes, it is underground) one gets to experience the worldwide sense of our Order, as members of the Order of Malta from over 50 countries gather with their Please do plan early to join us on this wonderful journey to malades to celebrate Mass for the first Sunday in May. The Lourdes. If you do come, or even if you cannot come this year, Order’s worldwide Pilgrimage to Lourdes always encompass- consider sponsoring a malade, someone you know well, who es the first Sunday in May. would benefit from the spiritual and physical healing that takes Abbe Francois Trouchu’s fascinating book, Saint Berna- place in Lourdes. Remember also, the “Malades in Spirit” pro- dette Soubirous, is excellent preparation for the pilgrimage. gram. Other individuals, some too sick to travel, benefit greatly He reports how Bernadette described that when she and the from the spiritual union that takes place in the MIS program. Lady were praying the rosary together, during the Our Father Their names, their intentions are carried with us all week in and the Hail Mary, the Lady did not move her lips, except to Lourdes, and together we pray especially for them. smile; but when they came to the Glory Be, the Lady bowed Finally, we have a special request this year. In the past, her head and visibly recited this prayer. members of the Order have been exceptionally generous in Abbe Trouchu goes their contributions to support the Lourdes Pilgrimage. Our on to explain, “The little decision this year to do away with the commercial flights one in her ignorance will ensure that the Teams (the “pods”) will have the op- could not have invented portunity to bond, to gel early in the pilgrimage during the this deep theological hours at Newark and on the charter airplane to Lourdes. truth. The Glory Be, This is a great comfort to the malades who will get to know which praises the Ador- their hosts and all of their team members at the very outset, able Trinity, is the only rather than the second, and sometimes third day after the part of the rosary suit- commercial flights arrive. However, the overall pilgrimage able for Our Lady. The will be more costly without the use of commercial flights. Our Father is a prayer of We are asking for your added support to permit us to plan needy mortals, tempted the pilgrimage using only charter travel, and, as always, we and sinful; and as for the are so grateful to you for your help and for your generosity. Hail Mary, the Appari- tion had no need to greet , pray for us. her own self.”

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 5 cover Story

Hospitaller Day of Grace and Healing at Notre Dame (continued from cover) Our chaplains Fr. Peter Rocca, C.S.C. and Fr. John Coughlin, O.F.M. received some additional help from Frs. Thomas Lynch and Eric Cruz of the Archdiocese of New York. Along with Fr. Dunn, this impressive team helped provide for our spiritual needs through a rosary procession, talks, Confession, Exposition and Benediction, Anointing of the Sick, and our celebration of the Mass of St. John. Assisting the malades were many Knights, Dames, auxil- iary, volunteers and even some area high school football play- ers. It seems that everyone was touched in some way. Over a hundred people pre-registered, and it was so well received that we already have it on the calendar again for next year. To seal the authenticity of our Lourdes experience, we gathered afterward for a reception and dinner where we recognized the 15th anniversary of the Investitures of Mary Reilly Hunt, DM, and Michael Decicco, KM, as well as the 95th birthday of Dr. Leslie Bodnar, KM. In retrospect, this spiritual (and therefore very human) day provided an incalculable benefit to a key but often ne- glected element of our healthcare delivery system. In 2009, about 42.1 million family caregivers provided assistance to an adult with limitations in daily activities. The AAPR Public He is remembered in an epitaph for gathering from every- Policy Institute estimates the economic value of this family where the means to feeds his people. He is also an inspiration caregiving at $450 billion. to caregivers by the way that he cared for his own people. Therefore public policy makers should consider ways in Observing the preeminence of spiritual care, an extract from which they can better support family caregivers. In short, the Traditional Rule states: family caregivers are on the front lines of our healthcare “When a sick person arrives, receive him thus: first hav- delivery system. They are also necessary agents in building a ing confessed his sins to a priest of the Religion, give him civilization of love, too. Only they can provide the love that is Holy Communion; and then let him be taken to a bed, and most needed. there let him be received just as if he were the Lord, and Perhaps it was Blessed Gerard who inspired us to bring each day, charitably, give him the best the house can furnish, all of this spiritual firepower to bear on this pressing need. before the brothers have broken fast…” Calendar of Events

November 3-6 November 10 November 12 Meeting of Americas Associations with Malta Human Services Foundation Morning Mass and Presentation (NYC) Grand Magistry (Lima, Peru) Board Meeting (NYC) Sub-priory Mass (NYC) November 4 Board of Councillors Meeting (NYC) New Member Orientation (NYC) March 16-18, 2012 Election ballots must be returned to the National Membership Conference (Miami) New York office November 11 Annual Meeting Solemn Mass of Investiture (NYC) Annual Dinner (NYC)

6 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 highlights

A Shared Mission – A Shared Response By Gary Kolarcik, Director Of Development, Little Sisters of the Poor-St. Louis

As I complete my first full year as Director of Development at the Little volunteers or supporters in the local community include Joseph F. Sisters of the Poor-St. Louis Residence, I have come to learn of the Shaughnessy of BSI Constructors, Jack Pohrer, Antonio R. Sanchez- incredible trust the Little Sisters place in St. Joseph, as protector of the Corea and Carole Less. Carole was particularly vital this year in guiding family, to care for their needs. us through the grant application process, and making sure we included Not only do the Little Sisters take a fourth vow of hospitality to serve all the necessary requirements for proper consideration. the elderly poor, but they continue the tradition of their founder, St. When Carole, as Area Chair for the Order of Malta in St. Louis, let the Little Jeanne Jugan, to beg for the needs of the Residents from local busi- Sisters know we would receive a grant, a meeting was scheduled to pres- nesses, produce markets, community organizations and foundations, ent the funding officially. The professional and personal manner in which and individual donors. With the continual rising of medical and housing the Order bestows its grants helped us tremendously. Our shared mission costs and the looming threats of cutbacks in government health pro- and traditions of hospitality and medical care made this partnership an ex- grams for the needy, the recent grant from the Order of Malta has cellent match. The conversation we had about our shared mission helped been a godsend. to solidify our relationship. The Catholic presence of both organizations has This past Spring and Summer, our Home for the Elderly has undergone been enhanced in this simple act of generosity on the part of the Order of a major project of replacing all the original windows in our 8-story Malta. It is just such a relationship that the Little Sisters of the Poor try to facility – nearly 200 windows (8 ft. by 4 ft. each) with newly insulated establish and nurture as they carry out their mission of hospitality to the double-pane windows. One of the goals of the Little Sisters is to serve needy elderly both here and around the world. The Little Sisters hope that the elderly in a homelike atmosphere, taking care of their needs with the this long relationship with the Order will continue for many years to come, dignity and respect they deserve. This project and the support we have and will encourage members to volunteer in our apostolate and support received from the Order of Malta and others will enable us to install new this important mission in St. Louis. windows without the drafts and loss of energy that our Residents have The Little Sisters of the Poor-St. Louis Residence is a beacon of hope, had to endure in recent years. a true Catholic presence to the poor, and a model for the dignity and Fortunately, a number of Order of Malta members have been affiliated respect due to all persons, whatever age, gender, position or status they with the Little Sisters of the Poor in St. Louis over their long 142 years may be. We are proud that with the support of the Order of Malta and its of service to the elderly by providing a residence for those with limited local members, we can together share these Catholic values in the St. resources. In recent years the members of the Order of Malta who Louis metro area. May all be blessed for your generosity and service of have been involved with our Home as either Advisory Board members, God’s little ones!

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 7 highlights This Little Light of Mine, I’m Gonna Let It Shine! Very Rev. David G. Caron, OP, D. Min., Magistral Chaplain, Order of Malta

The other day someone said to me, fighting for a cause use candles as their symbol of unity. The lit candle is a “Father, please say a prayer for me. Light symbol for Amnesty International. Candles are lit for those with HIV/AIDS a candle for me.” and are also placed in widows during times of war. More than just a source With these words, immediately my mind of light, candles serve a symbolic purpose for different events in life. was brought back to my last experience of From time immemorial, people have lit candles in sacred places. In many lighting candles; to the Malta Pilgrimage different traditions, lighting candles is a sacred action. This gesture to Lourdes this past May. In Lourdes each expresses more than words can express. The gesture has to do with year I have two experiences of “lighting gratefulness. It also has to do with presence. Christianity and in particular candles.” One is with the thousands of Catholicism does not have a corner on the market when it comes to the other pilgrims who gather at 8:45PM for use of candles for prayer. Today candles are used by people of many the Torchlight Marian Procession around different spiritual practices in many ways and for various reasons. Used the Domain’s esplanade and into Rosary Square in front of the in rituals, ceremonies, during prayer or meditation, practictioners say that Bascilica. The focus of this procession is the rosary. All five decades the flickering light of a candle flame can raise spiritual energy or help to are recited, usually in a variety of languages. The “Lourdes Hymn” bring about a sense of calm and peace. Although many different beliefs is sung, with verses in different languages while pilgrims raise their incorporate the use of candles in their spiritual rituals and practices, the candles in prayer during the singing of the chorus: Ave, Ave, Ave symbolism of the candles can vary. Let us briefly look at a few. Maria! The second candle experience on the Lourdes Pilgrimage, is a In Judaism, a candle can represent the soul and the care which should personal one; late in the evening, at least once during the trip, I go to be taken lest the flame of a person’s soul is extinguished. Light is the the area near the Grotto where pilgrims have lit and left their candles genesis of the world: the primary utterance of creation is “Let there be in one of the metal brulières as a gesture of devotion. At that time light,” (Gen. 1:3) and the first act of creation is the distillation of light, its of the evening, this is a quiet and prayerful place. Seeing hundreds separation from darkness. The Midrash tradition asks: Where was light of flickering candles of various shapes and sizes allows me to focus created from? And the Jewish scholars answer: G-d cloaked Himself in my prayer in the silence of the night. There I offer my specific prayer a white shawl, and the light of its splendor shone from one end of the intentions and realize the seriousness of the needs represented world to the other. In other words, light has its origins beyond space and by the burning candles before me; prayers for cures and healings, time; it is, rather, an emanation of God’s holiness. For our Jewish brothers prayers for acceptance of life’s situations, prayers for the dying or the and sisters, light serves as the symbol of the good and the beautiful, of dead. There is something wonderfully beautiful; even romantic, about all that is positive. The difference between light and darkness assumes this place late at night and about the One to whom we pray. It is here metaphysical significance, and the advantage of light over darkness is so where the words of the scripture come to mind, “the light shines in obvious and self-evident, that it serves as a sharp metaphor: “Wisdom the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1: 5) excels folly as far as light excels darkness” (Ecclesiastes 2:13). I have often wondered why people have an attraction to candles. Light as a positive symbol is so prevalent in the Hebrew Scriptures that This is not just a religious and spiritual phenomenon but it’s also true redemption, truth, justice, peace, and even life itself “shine,” and their in popular culture. I mean, we often don’t stop to think about what is expressed in terms of the revelation of light. This is brought a candle brings into our lives. They can radiate romance, warmth, home to us in a more concrete way as we Christians pray with our Jewish spirituality, comfort, secret wishes and light, all of this created by friends, the words of Psalm 27 (v.1) “the Lord is my light and my salva- something so simple as wax and a wick. My brief research on the tion.” So, candles are used for many Jewish ceremonies such as the an- history of candles has shown that candles are used in 7 out of 10 nual eight evenings of Chanukah and the weekly ritual when a Havdallah U.S. households on a regular basis. A majority of people burn candles candle is lit to mark the end of Shabbat. for less than three hours per occasion. A majority also burn candles between 1 and 3 times per week with half of these burning 1or 2 Religious traditions from the east also light candles. Candles form a large candles at a time. Candle shipments increase substantially during the part of Buddhist practice and are traditional in Buddhist rituals. Candles third quarter of each year because of end-of-year holiday celebrations or other sources of light are placed in front of images of the Buddha or (including Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa), and are used for reli- as a mark of respect. The flame symbolicly represents the teach- gious reasons, for decorative purposes and are even shared as gifts. ings of Buddha. In Hinduism candle light typically symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and prosperity. The Hindu Festival of Lights, Dilwali, which Candles are also popular for other events and other times of the year lasts several days, is often celebrated yearly around the same time as the as well. Who could ever go without candles during birthdays? Every Christian Advent season and the Jewish Chanukah. child and even some adults look forward to blowing out the candles and thinking about the “wish” associated with those candles once ex- In most of the religious and spiritual traditions of our world, candles are tinguished. Some weddings also include a specific candle ceremony. used then in both public rituals and personal meditation to help create No funeral is complete without candles. Candles also have a unifying an atmosphere of peace, as a visual focal point or as a way to heighten element that binds people with the same purpose. People who are spiritual energy. As one can see, the light of a candle flame can represent

8 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 many different things, depending upon one’s belief. But for the most part The introduction of and popularity of devotional vigil candles or it symbolizes spirit, divinity, truth, devotion or a way in which one can con- votives, found in many Catholic Churches and pilgrimage sites like nect with a higher power; the Divine. Lourdes has refined further the religious symbolism of their usage. A We Christians are very used to candles in our prayers and our litugies. vigil light located at a sacred place is nothing more than an ancient Advent wreaths, Easter candles, Baptismal candles and altar candles are and venerable signal of “watchful waiting,” as when one keeps a light just a few examples of the Church’s use of lights in and around the liturgy. on in a window waiting for someone’s return. For us, it is the Lord And as everlasting flames were kept on the menorah in the Temple in who invites us, like the disciples in the garden, to stay awake and Jerusalem, representing the Presence of God in the Holy of Holies, so too watch. And like a burning candle, the consumption of our lives with does the Tabernacle Vigil Lamp burns brightly for the same reason in our all its hopes, dreams, wishes, successes and failures, burns away--- Catholic Churches. Our Christian Scriptures so elequently expresses the symbolic of Christ’s self emptying sacrifice (kenosis) spoken of in divine presence of Christ and the Holy Spirit in the same way as Jesus Philippians 2:5 and found on the Good Friday Cross. Pope Benedict refers to himself as the “Light of the World” (Jn 8:12) and the Holy Spirit refers to this as the self-emptying love of Christ in his first encyclical, is experienced on Pentecost as “tongues of fire.”(Acts 2:3) Light and fire God Is Love, when he writes, this “indicates the self-giving love of one are powerful and universal metaphors of the presence of God. who looks exclusively for the good of the other.” But before there were candles, which was thought to be an invention of Today, candles used in worship and prayer fall into three primary the Eygyptians five thousand years ago, lamps burning animal fat were categories. They symbolize the presence of God, they particularly used to light up sacred and secular places. The lamp is also a common symbolize the gift of Christ’s self-sacrificing presence as the Light of image found in scripture. The Psalmist uses it to symbolize God’s word, the World (Jn 8:12) and they represent humankind’s rejoicing in that “You are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness.” (2 Sam presence. All three of these come together powerfully for me when I 22:29) Proverbs invoke the lamp as a metaphor for the human spirit, go to Lourdes. These starry pinpricks of light penetrate the dark- “The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD” (Prov 20:27). And Jesus ness of the night and are found every evening near the side of a cave himself uses the lamp as a symbol of good works when he says “…a where the “Lady of Massabielle” appeared and spoke words of hope lamp should not be hidden.” (Mt 5:15) The Patristic Fathers of the Church to a young peasent girl, Bernadette Soubirous. These same sparks often make reference to lamps as a sign of Jesus Christ. St. Basil does so should speak words of hope to us, as Christians and as members of in the fourth century when writing about the lighting of the lamps at the the Order of Malta as well. For me, the candle’s light gives substance Vespers liturgy, perhaps accompanied to the singing of the Greek Phos to the promise of Isaiah spoken so long ago: Hilaron, or Hymn for the Lighting of the Lamps but is now often traslated “See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the and sung under the title, “O Radiant Light.” people; But upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears The lighting of these lights would have been both symbolic as well God’s glory. Nations shall walk by your light, and kings by your as practical as we remember that early Christians often worshipped shining radiance.” (Isa 60:2-3) clandestinely and did so before sunrise or after sunset when worshippers And so I find myself back at the beginning of this article - with some- might assemble in catacombs. In safe places among the dead or in other one approaching me with a request, “Father, please say a prayer for locations when they gathered behind closed windows and bolted doors, me. Light a candle for me.” Why do I do it and why do I remember the Christ’s real presence was experienced in the celebration of the Eucharist. Lourdes Pilgrimage? The fire of a candle can give us a small window In other words, they “saw” him amid the lamplight. But lest we think that into the mysterious ways of God. This symbol, with its warmth and lamp light was only utilitarian, St. Jerome said, “…wherever the Gospel is light, is also paradoxical for it has the ability to remind us that the to be recited, they bring forth lights, even if it is noonday—not, certainly, flame of God’s love has the power to purge; to burn out sin from our to drive away darkness, but to manifest some sign of joy…” Knowing the hearts and lives. If we are honest, the simple symbol of the candle’s early Church’s symbolic use of light, the following scripture passage has flame is not so simple for it shows us how our ideas of God, while more meaning as we read, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light good and useful, are at the same time limited and perhaps inad- to my path.” (Ps 119:105). St. Gregory the Great was referring to the equate. For to light a candle for another is an important and layered Parable of the Ten Wise Virgins (Mt 25:1-13) when he said about worship, gesture of love. It gives us a glimpse into God who is powerful and “we shall meet the Bridegroom—we shining and virgin souls with lamps vast beyond all imagining. And so we light the candle and place it, we of our faith shining.” say the prayer and perhaps in our heart we sing: Historically it has been noted, that during the Patristic era, the Emperor Let it shine, Let it shine, Let it shine. Constantine and his Christian successors gave hundreds, if not thou- sands, of lamps as gifts to various churches in the empire – for both prac- tical purposes and symbolic meanings. But gradually, over time, the use of oil lamps declined in favor of the use of wax candles. How we create, hold and use fire and its light will continue to change but the layers of meaning will never be lost. Since the time of the invention of the candle, little has changed except the addition of paraffin and other petroleum products making candles more readily availible and affordable. Through the years the candle’s popularity grows with the addition of color, size and scent.

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 9 and came to inquire about the cause of their complaining. Saint Hugh Seeing him, they begged him to give them water, and, as he declined, they persisted and wept, saying that they would aint Hugh is one of the most highly venerated die of exhaustion from the work and the heat. He hardly saints of the Order, although neither his origins believed that, but through charity, after having invoked nor the date of his birth are known. He was the the Master of Nature, the saint made the sign of the cross Commander at Genoa and administered his Hos- and the waters gushed from the rock of the fountain, to the pital in the best of fashions. That did not keep him astonished cries of the servants. Sfrom being an edifying religious, “exercising religion toward On another evening, the worthy Knight was saying his God and his neighbors.” prayers at the top of the tower of the Hospital which domi- Among his mortifications, he slept on a board, in a cor- nated the port of Genoa. A violent storm was raging and the ner of the basement of the Hospital and fasted year round, venerable man noticed in the distance, through the curtain eating nothing cooked in Lent. He served the poor with love of rain and the tossing waves and clouds, a ship was in im- and tact, giving them food, money, spiritual comfort and minent danger of sinking. Hugh fell to his knees amid the brotherly love. He washed their feet. He took care of them, thunder and lightning and began to pray with tears stream- and when they died, he buried them. The eight-pointed cross ing down his cheeks. Then, confidently, he arose and facing was not only on his cloak; he the ship, he made a sign of the wore it in his heart. Each day he ...the saint made the sign of the cross cross. Immediately a great calm recited the office and heard Mass occurred. The winds died down, with such fervor that he often fell and the waters gushed from the the sea became slack, and the into ecstasy and was raised from rock of the fountain. moon shone in the clear sky. the floor in the sight of all. His When the galleon entered the prayer was evidently continuous, port, it found the sailors who had and God rewarded him for it by a gift of working . gathered to come to its aid and who had not yet recovered These miracles were outstanding and were attested to by from their surprise at the sudden subsiding of the storm. the Archbishop of Genoa, Otto Fusco, and by four venerable Some of them had seen the saving gesture of the saint. These canons that frequented the house of the saint and witnessed all went in procession to the church of the Hospital to sing his marvelous deeds. their thanksgiving to God and to his servant. On one sultry Italian day, some women were in the In spite of his austerity, St. Hugh followed the laws of common room of the infirmary washing the linen of the civility and would occasionally invite friends to lunch. One sick. As the fountain of the monastery had dried up, they day, Nicolas Pigliacaro, his guest, noticing that there was had to fetch water for their task from a great distance. They nothing to drink on the table, got up to fetch water from the were complaining loudly enough that the saint heard them spring. Now, it happened that after grace and the sign of the cross made by the venerable host over the food, the water had changed into excellent wine. On four different occasions, this was repeated. Nicolas assures us of it. Finally, there was in Genoa an unfortunate man pos- sessed by the devil whom the saint went to visit. On his ap- proach, the possessed man went into convulsions and began to shout: “Hugh! Do not torment me anymore! I am ready to depart.” And so it was. The mere sight of the venerable man had overcome Satan who departed from the possessed man. Brother Hugh died venerated by all on October 8, 1230, and was buried in the church of St. John of Jerusalem in Genoa. But, ardent in the service of his brothers during his earthly life, he continued to help them in his eternity. A man whose leg tendons had contracted so much that he could not move had himself carried to the holy tomb, where he stayed for five days and nights. His persevering prayer was finally heard. Cured, he devoted himself to the service of the Hospi- tal for the remainder of his life as he had vowed to do. Confined to her bed by gout, a certain Dame Orto had St. Hugh with the Sick and Poor not left her room for six years. Shortly after the death of St.

10 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 Highlight

Hugh, because of his miracle-working fame, she wished to try his power. Supported and led by her friend, Donna Maria, and Canon William della Barma of the Cathedral of Genoa, together with one of the latter’s confrères, she came to lay her supplication before the Blessed Knight, who courteously granted her wish. Cured, she took the habit of the Order and served the poor of the Hospital during the rest of her life, as was done by the three witnesses of the miracle. We are not astonished, therefore, that after such wonders, of which Archbishop Fusco was himself the guarantor, the feast of the saint was celebrated on the day of his entrance Minnesota Area Answer the into heaven in all the churches of Genoa. Formerly a great procession was held to carry the head of the venerable man Call of the Poor through the city, the recipient of his favors, which returned to Steve Hawkins, KM him in devotion all the good he had done for it. While it’s easy to see the famine that threatens millions half way around (Adapted from ‘The Spiritual Heritage of The Sovereign the world, it’s also easy to overlook the growing hunger and homeless- Military Order of Malta’ by Msgr. François Ducaud-Bourget and ness that threatens thousands in our own communities. On any given submitted by John Dick, KM, Area Hospitaller from Minnesota). night, more than 13,000 people seek shelter all across Minnesota, nearly half of whom are children and young adults. Food shelf demand is up 50% and now nearly 1 in every 10 families use food stamps to survive. And those figures are growing at an astonishing rate. Reminder Knights, Dames, Auxiliary and Friends of the Order in Minnesota have joined together to answer the call of the poor in our midst Investiture, Annual Dinner and by preparing and serving dinner every 4th Friday and breakfast every 4th Saturday to more than 500 individuals at the Dorothy Annual Meeting Scheduled for Day Center in St. Paul. On those Friday evenings, members and volunteers also prepare and serve a snack to 250 men and women November 11th who re-enter the Center, take up mats and prepare to sleep upon All Knights, Dames, Auxiliary, Clergy, family and friends are invited the floor, grateful to have even that space to call home for the night. and encouraged to attend the 2011 Solemn Mass of Investiture Warm food, a welcome smile, and a kind word assure those whom to be held on November 11th at 2:00PM at the Cathedral of Saint Christ loved the most that He has not forgotten them. Patrick, located on 5th Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets in Knights have also started preparations to expand the pilot program New York City. Eighty-four new Knights and Dames will be invested they began last winter, providing overflow shelter to the ever increas- at the Mass. Invitations to the Annual Dinner have been mailed to ing number of homeless men seeking a warm and secure place to all members of the Association. The special guest speaker at the spend a cold winter night. Beginning in November, Knights and men Dinner will be Fr. James Martin, SJ, author and Culture Editor of of the Auxiliary and Friends of the Order, will take turns overnight America magazine. hosting up to 50 individuals who have been turned away from other There have been several updates to the Order of Events which shelters which are full. Doors open each evening at 7:00PM and was included in the mailing with the Summer edition of the this year, in addition to providing a snack and a safe, warm place to Hospitallers newsletter: spend the night, additional volunteers will be available to help those who want to search for affordable housing, jobs, and arrange health • The time for the Mass of the Subpriory of Our Lady of Lourdes care or work through social services forms. With the help of Catholic on Saturday, November 12th has been changed to 2:00PM (it Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis who have was listed at 3:00PM) at the Church of Saint Joseph, 317 Sixth partnered with us to provide space and access to computer equip- Avenue, New York, NY 10014. ment, and the AmeriCorp interns who will assist, we hope to assist a • Please note the dress code for the men at the Reception and Din- few more men regain their dignity by finding their way out of poverty. ner is white tie and black tails. For the poor in Minnesota, the Order of Malta, its Members and its An updated copy of the Order of Events is available on the Associa- Friends are increasingly becoming an answer to their basic needs tion’s Web site, www.maltausa.org. and a reassurance that they are loved.

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 11 highlights National Membership Conference Plans Continue

The National Membership Conference is scheduled for March 16 to transportation via bus will also be available. March 18, 2012 in beautiful Coral Gables in sunny Florida. While the On Saturday, March 17th, the Conference will move to Saint Thomas North and Mid-West may be digging out of snow and likely tiring of University for the morning Eucharistic Celebration in the Chapel of the long winter season, members who attend the conference will be Saint Anthony. Monsignor Franklyn M. Casale, President of Saint blessed with great speakers, a great location and great weather. The Thomas University, will be our host for the Conference activities at Biltmore Hotel, a classic destination that has been fully restored to its the University. After Mass and a continental breakfast in the breeze- preeminent stature as one of the great hotels in Florida and perhaps in way of Saint Thomas University School of Law, all Knights, Dames the United States, is the gathering place. and guests will be seated in the Moot Court Room for the Opening Mark J. Wolff, KM, Area Chair for the Miami Area and Conference Session on the theme of the Conference “Catholic Social Doctrine: Chair, has assembled a team of competent and energetic members to Philosophical and Theological Foundations”. Additional sessions staff the development and execution of a great event. Members who during the day will be directed by great speakers such as Most attend will benefit from the expertise and the eloquence of a top-notch Reverend John M. Smith, Emeritus from New Jersey. Bishop group of speakers who are being assembled for the agenda. In addi- Smith is familiar to recent Lourdes Pilgrims for his sense of humor, tion, the Eucharistic celebrations are sure to inspire, from the carefully his kindness and for his great insight. selected celebrants and homilists to the sacred places where the Dinner on Saturday evening will provide attendees with the opportunity Masses will be offered. to meet with Knights and Dames at the Conference, other guests as The Conference, with its home base at the historic Biltmore Hotel well as some of the speakers and the entire Conference Committee. in Coral Gables, will begin at noon on Friday, March 16th with a On Sunday morning, the Main Eucharistic Celebrant will be The Most workshop for Area Chairs and Area Hospitallers of the American As- Reverend Felipe J. Estévez. S.T.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Miami. Mass will sociation. This important gathering will give the Area Chairs and Area be at the Biltmore followed by a Bon Voyage brunch. Hospitallers a chance to meet in person to discuss topics important to Work continues on the publication of a Commemorative Journal of them and to the Association. the conference proceedings. Malta members will have the oppor- The Conference opens in earnest for all members with the Eucharistic tunity to help underwrite the cost of the publication by making a Celebration with Principal Celebrant Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski contribution in honor or memory of a loved one. For more informa- of Miami. The Mass will be held at the beautiful Church of the Little tion on being a Commemorative Journal sponsor and for the latest Flower, one block from the Biltmore Hotel, at 5:30PM on Friday, March news on the Conference, visit our National Conference Web site at 16th, 2012. The Mass will be followed by a “Welcome Reception” www.orderofmaltasouthflorida.org or contact Raymond Kayal, KM with cocktails and carving stations in historic Comber Hall immediately at [email protected]. adjacent to the Church of the Little Flower. While both the Church and Updated information, registration for the Conference and Press Releases can Hall are within easy walking distance from the Biltmore, air conditioned be obtained by going to the Web site at www.orderofmaltasouthflorida.org.

12 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 theme. During the opening ceremony while national flags were waving and anthems were proudly blaring, each nation was invited to process down the aisle with soil we were asked to bring from our homelands. It was collected and combined at the altar to represent our unity. This was a beautiful sym- bol for the youth from 22 countries with such diverse backgrounds to be reminded of our similar values…all rooted in our faith. We were blessed with an open-air Mass on the beach for the English- speaking nations represented at Camp. Kingsley Joseph and Brian Quilter secure a bronze in the Christopher Cup Croquet Tournament. Later in the week, we enjoyed Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral where we prayed for the soul of Joe Miller on Malta Summer Camp: the day of his funeral – a powerful mo- ment for our team. Camp was visited Lignano Sabbiadoro, Italy by several representatives of the Order Reflections by: Suzanne Craig, Stacey Durnan, Brian Quilter of Malta from Rome, including Grand Master Frá Matthew Festing. ummer camp means arts including 2 guests, we were strong. We There were times for quiet reflec- and crafts, sports, sun, fun, hope you will be proud that we secured tion and times for attempting to keep songs, s’mores and mosquito a bronze in the annual Christopher Cup up with spinning wheelchairs across bites, right? Not exactly! Being Croquet Tournament. If that wasn’t the dance floor. There were camp- 40-something, and never hav- enough, Kingsley Joseph, straight from veterans of 12+ years and first-timers Sing gone to camp, this was my image. I NYC (whom you may remember from taking it all in. You were never far from stopped short of sewing name tags into Lourdes), was the guest DJ at the disco! another language and someone willing all of my clothes before I left, but truly, Simply put, he rocked the house. How- to teach you a new way to say “hello” or I had no idea what to expect. Though ever, even DJ Kingsley was not the best “thank you.” sun and fun were included and there part of Camp Malta. The love, care, respect, admiration were candles and hats to be made, the The theme of the camp was “We and trust shared mutually among the Malta Summer Camp hosted in Lignano are the Light of the World” and, as so care givers and the guests embodied the Sabbiadoro, Italy included beachfront many of you know from your journeys spirit of the camp. And it was this spirit accommodations, day trips to Venice to Lourdes, the smiles on the guests that was undoubtedly the best part of and Padua, international food and were more than enough to validate that Camp Malta. drink, wine tasting, boat rides, a zoo, a running Italian brass band (not march- ing, running), a nightly disco into the wee hours, a rock concert and a ride in a Ferrari. Not your typical summer camp, and I haven’t even told you the best part of Camp Malta. The Malta Summer Camp, in its 28th year, hosted young adults with disabilities (guests) and their helpers, a medical team and a spiritual team, to- taling about 450 people from 22 coun- tries. This was the second consecutive A visit to SMOM’s Rocca Bernarda estate and winery in the village of Premariacco was made available year that the USA was represented, and to the camp guests. (l. to r.: Karl Paarm, Gian Luca, Marcin Kilanowski, Burke Wolfman, Tanguy de Radzitzky, Kingsley Joseph, Suzanne Craig, Stacey Durnan, Brian Quilter) though we were lean with only 7 people

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 13 nion; “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins Homily for the of the world” (John 1:29). He was fiery, brash, considered by some as a mad man living in the desert. Yet, his words Solemnity of the Birth attracted people to repentance, to a change of heart. King Herod, too, was attracted to his fiery words even though of St. John the Baptist they were directed at him (Mark 6:20). Interestingly, King Henry VIII found the impeccable integrity of Thomas More Monsignor John J. Darcy, Deputy Chaplain, Rhode Island also attractive. Both John the Baptist and Thomas More challenged their kings who had violated the religious laws elcome to the celebration of two of marriage. Both men were beheaded as they bore witness solemnities this evening. Saint John to the truth. the Baptist, a patron of the Order of The ultimate context for all our lives is the Death and Malta, the forerunner of Christ and St. Resurrection of the Lord. One of the most famous icons from Thomas More, in this parish church the Eastern Tradition of the Church, the Descent into Hell, dedicatedW to “the man for all seasons.” After the Holy In- depicts the Risen Lord pulling Adam and Eve from their nocence, John the Baptist was the first to suffer martyr- graves with the wrappings of death still clinging to their bod- dom for Christ. St. Thomas More, whose martyrdom we ies. In that traditional icon, the Risen Lord is enveloped in a commemorate today, is revered for his sterling integrity in nimbus, a shield of glory. Arrayed on either side of the Lord defense of the faith. John the Baptist and Thomas More, are the images of the prophets of the Old Testament and the both martyrs of the Church, have much to say to us about Apostles. There is something very unique about one person in our faith, our service to the sick and the poor, and our wit- the icon. It is not only the placement of John the Baptist, but ness to the world. We acknowledge and thank you, Father also his action. He is the closest person to the Christ figure. Taillon, for your generosity in hosting the Order of Malta His action gives one pause. As he points to Christ, his hand on this very special day for this parish. We also thank our pierces the shield of Christ’s glory! Recall the words of Jesus Bishop Emeritus, Bishop Robert Mulvee for celebrating this Himself describing John, “Amen I say to you, among those Mass for the Order of Malta. born of woman there has been none greater than John the The liturgical calendar usually commemorates the en- Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than trance of Christ’s faithful into eternal glory. But the Church he” (Matt. 11:11). also celebrates the birthday of only three persons through- As a patron of the Order of Malta, John the Baptist out the whole Church Year: Mary, the Mother of the Lord; serves as a truly noteworthy example of faith. John the St. John the Baptist; and Jesus, the Christ. The dates them- Baptist and Mary, the Mother of the Lord, always pointed selves are quite interesting. The birth of Mary, September 8, the way to Jesus. Both were close to the Lord’s glory. They is nine months after her Immaculate Conception (December were the first disciples to cooperate with grace and then 8). We celebrate the birth of John the Baptist right after the bore witness in the Father’s plan of salvation. The ministry summer solstice, June 21, when the hours of daylight ever of the Order continues to bear witness to Christ as protec- so quietly begin to wane. The placement of the Baptist’s tors of the poor and the sick, and as defenders of the faith. birthday (June 24) in the liturgical calendar accentuates The annual pilgrimage to Lourdes invests our time, talent John’s own words, “He must increase, I must decrease” and treasure in service to the sick. Our small Area serves (John 3:30). This deep theological truth is connected inti- in our food pantry, in the prison, and in hospital ministry. mately with the date of the celebration of the birth of Jesus, We see in our brothers and sisters the very person of the the Christ. suffering and glorious Christ. All of our Order’s activities, The celebration of Christmas, commonly thought to like the eight points on the Malta Cross, reflect the bless- offset the celebration of the Sol Invictus (The Invincible Sun), ings offered to those who serve the least of our brothers and comes right after the longest night of the year, December 21. sisters among us. After this, the daylight begins to slowly increase; “The true Through our humble efforts, and throughout the centu- light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world” ries, the Knights and Dames of Malta have echoed the words (John 1:9). Whereas the days grow shorter after the celebra- of our patron, John the Baptist. Whatever we undertake as tion of the birth of John, the days grow longer after the birth faithful members of the Church’s oldest lay Order, may the of Christ. words of John the Baptist be ever in our minds and in our John the Baptist’s defense of the truth is his life’s hall- souls, “He must increase, and I must decrease.” mark as the one who points the way to Christ. In the Gos- St. John the Baptist, Patron of the Order of Malta; pray for us! pel of John, some of the very first words of the Baptist are canonized in the sacred liturgy before receiving Commu-

14 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 In memorium highlights Deceased Members 2010 American Association January 1, 2011 – Present Elections Underway Mary Anne Baker, DMOb Bloomfield Hills, MI The process is underway for the American Association to hold its Yvelise M. Bosch, DM Miami, FL annual election for members of the Board of Councillors. Because of the death of President Joseph Miller, the election for President The Honorable Governor Hugh L. Carey, KM Loudonville, NY of the Association will also be held. All Knights and Dames of the Association are encouraged to vote. When more members take the Patrick Francis Carone, KM Massapequa Park, NY time to vote in the Board of Councillor elections, the results are a Charles Clark, Jr., KM Dallas, TX better reflection of the true will of the membership. Alfred Michael Donovan, MD, KM Lynnfield, MA Eight positions for the Board of Councillors will be decided in the election this fall as well as the position of President. The Nomi- Henry Frederick Frigon, KM Scottsdale, AZ nating Committee, assisted by an Area Chair advisory team, Augustus James Grace, KJ Westford, MA has completed its work and submitted a slate of candidates Timothy J. Guinee, KM Topsfield, MA for Board of Councillor approval. As Secretary of the American Association, the Honorable Marie L. Garibaldi presides over the John P. Hayes, KM Boca Raton, FL entire election process. Robert E. Healy, KM Vero Beach, FL The Board of Councillors approved a slate of candidates for Presi- Lawrence Francis Hickey, KM New York, NY dent and for the Board of Councillors at its September meeting. On September 13th, Judge Garibaldi sent a letter to the membership William O’Connell Matthews, KM Bronxville, NY advising them of those candidates. Members who wished to offer Joseph H. Miller, KMOb New Canaan, CT themselves as candidates had the opportunity, under the by-laws, to Frank Joseph Milloy, MD, KM Glencoe, IL get on the ballot for the Board of Councillors if they were proposed by 25 members. Members who wished to run for President had to Robert James Monahan, KM New Canaan, CT be proposed by 100 members. All such proposals are governed by William M. Regan, KM Bronxville, NY the by-laws and must have been received in the New York office by September 30th. George A. Resnik, Sr., KM South Bend, IN Preparation of the candidate information/ballot packages is being Hubert J. Schlafly, KM Stamford, CT completed and will be mailed to all members on or before October William A. Schreyer, KM Princeton, NJ 15th. Completed ballots must be returned by mail or hand- delivered to the NY office of the American Association (suite 1350, 1011 First Avenue, New York, NY 10022) on or before 4:00PM Reminder (ET) on Friday, November 4th. It is very important that the ballot return envelope be signed and the member’s name be legibly printed on the ballot return envelope. If the printed name is not Web-only articles legible or if the ballot return envelope is not signed, the ballot will not be counted. Be sure to go our web site at www.maltausa.org. Click on “News Judge Garibaldi said that in addition to voting for the candidates for & Events.” Click on “Association Newsletters.” Then, click on the President and for the Board of Councillors, the membership will be “Web Only Articles” under the Fall 2011 issue of Hospitallers for the asked to vote to approve a change to the By-Laws that the Board presentation given at the morning of Reflection in Lourdes this year of Councillors approved at its September meeting. She explained by Msgr. Frank Caldwell, Ch.M. the purpose of the proposed change, “In order to conform to the • You can find the collection of Malta Minutes in the “Malta Media Minis- requirements of the Order, it is necessary that the President of the American Association be elected by a majority vote. Our by-laws tries” section on the web site. You will also find a listing of the stations currently require only a plurality of the votes cast. In an election with where the Malta Minutes are being broadcast. Broadcasts are available only two candidates, it is not an issue but going forward, we need in English and Spanish. to be in conformity so we are making this change now. The vote on • In the “Members Only” section, you can find the forms necessary for the by-law change will be included on the ballot.” signing up for the 2012 Lourdes Pilgrimage as well as forms for recom- Election results will be announced at the Annual Meeting of the mending a Malade for the pilgrimage. These were mailed at the end of American Association which will be held at the Waldorf-Astoria September but are available on the web as well. Hotel in New York City on Friday, November 11th beginning at 9AM.

Vol 8 Fall 2011 | Hospitallers | 15 Volume 8 Fall 2011

HIGHLIGHTS Executive Office 1011 First Avenue, Suite 1350 New York, NY 10022-4112 USA Spending a Minute with the Catechism Telephone: (212) 371-1522 Fax: (212) 486-9427 www.maltausa.org Defending the faith is more than taking up the sword and hewing down the enemy – for most members of the Order, it is the daily focus on living the faith in spite of Executive Office Staff the world’s pressure to make other choices. The American Association has been bringing a message of Faith and Hope through the “Malta Minutes,” a popular radio Rev. Dr. Jeffrey R. Trexler Executive Director segment that focuses attention on the ability of one person to make a difference in the lives of others. Now, the Association is using the airwaves to bring another set of Raymond J. LaRose messages to the radio audiences. Assistant Executive Director, Newsletter, Board Meetings Mr. Peter Muratore, Board of Councillors member and Chairman of the Communica- Kathleen L. Lyons tions Committee, reports that a new program, “Order of Malta’s Minute with the Controller Catechism,” has been very well received in trial runs on over one hundred Catholic radio stations across the country. Maria Di Giacomo Administrative Assistant This new series, written and narrated by Peggy Stanton, DM, provides one minute for Member Services segments on the Catechism of the . Mr. Muratore said that the Carla L. Gunerard content of the segments has been reviewed by a theologian, a canon lawyer and an Program Coordinator attorney. The interest from the radio stations in the Catechism segments has been for Major Events tremendous. A disk of ten segments has been Matthew T. LaRose prepared; another disk of twenty more seg- IT Systems Manager/Assistant to the Controller ments is in the works – the segments have Miquan A. McLaurin been completed and only thing left is the Administrative/Accounting Assistant production run. Mr. Muratore reports that there has been no cost to the Association. Ann R. Peabody Program Support – Lourdes, Annual Dinner The “Order of Malta’s Minute with the Kathleen Glynn Trabucco Catechism” series follows the “Malta Administrative/Communications Project Support Minutes” project which is being aired on hundreds of radio stations in the United Marissa D. Blackett Volunteer, Chair – Capital Campaign Operations States and across North and South America. This popular series consists Design/Production: Rappy & Company, Inc. of sixty one-minute segments which are

available in English and Spanish while the Catechism segments are only Articles for future issues of this available in English. newsletter should be mailed to: Mr. Muratore said that there are plans in place to produce another set of “Malta Raymond J. LaRose American Association Minutes” in 2012. This popular series, focusing on how one person can change the 1011 First Avenue, Suite 1350, New York, NY 10022 world, sometimes in a small way and sometimes with a major impact, is heard on or sent via email to: [email protected] stations around the country. The “Malta Minutes” series of sixty segments is avail- able at the Association’s website (www.maltausa.org) in the Malta Media Ministries © 2011 Order of Malta®, American Association, U.S.A. section. You can also find a list of the stations airing the “Malta Minutes” in the same location on the website.

Change of address (physical or virtual)? Please notify the New York office of all changes of address. If your primary mailing address or your e-mail Our Mission address changes, please be sure to notify the American Association’s administrative team. Just The American Association of the Order of Malta, carefully observing the centuries-old send a note to the New York office or send an e-mail tradition of the Order, has as its mission, to enhance the glory of God through the to [email protected] or call our office at sanctification of its members, through dedication to and defense of the faith and the (212) 371-1522. Maintaining correct addresses Holy See and through service to our fellow man, especially the sick and poor. ensures that you will receive mailings on a timely basis. It can also save the American Association a 16 | Hospitallers | Vol 8 Fall 2011 significant amount of time and money.