On Saturday 7 October, some 250 Order of Malta members and volunteers from all over Italy took part in the pilgrimage to the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence.

Led by the Grand Commander, Fra’ Emmanuel Rousseau, the pilgrimage was organized to commemorate Blessed Pietro Pattarini from Imola.

Born in the Romagna town in the mid-13th century, Pietro Pattarini entered the then Order of Saint John of Jerusalem after 1311, becoming Grand Prior of Rome a few years later. Blessed Pietro Pattarini is remembered for his important career as magistrate – he was also involved in the peace negotiations between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines of Emilia-Romagna in the late 13th century – but especially for his dedication to the sick and the infirm. He died in Florence in October 1320.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Cardinal Giuseppe Betori, Archbishop of Florence.