This week, from 17 to 22 November, the spiritual retreat of the Order of Malta’s professed members and chaplains is taking place in the serene setting of the Nazareth Centre on the outskirts of Rome. Twenty-eight of the Order’s religious from all over the world are participating.

Under the guidance of Grand Master Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto, this year the retreat is dedicated to reflection on religious vows, following the example and spirit of St. Teresa of Avila. The meditations are led by the Head Chaplain of the Grand Priory of Rome, Msgr. Guido Mazzotta.

The purpose of the spiritual exercises and the week of community life – promoted last year by the Grand Master – is to consolidate the spirituality of the Order’s professed through the experience of communal living.