The Order of Malta expresses its heartfelt condolences for the murder of the 35 year-old policeman, Mario Cerciello Rega, during the night between 25 and 26 July in the Prati district of Rome. The sergeant had been a volunteer for the Order of Malta’s Roman delegation since 2009, distributing meals to the homeless and vulnerable people in the Termini and Tiburtina railway stations. A constant and regular commitment carried out with such dedication and passion that he was awarded a Merito Melitense decoration in 2013.

The motivation for awarding the bronze medal with swords by the then Grand Prior of Rome, Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto, current Grand Master of the Order of Malta, was that “he had always participated in the twice-weekly distribution of food in the late evening, in critical areas of Rome such as the major railway stations where needy and marginalised people tend to collect”.

“A terrible bereavement for the entire community. We have lost a generous and dedicated man, animated by a profound sense of responsibility. The Order of Malta offers its warmest sympathy to the family of Mario Cerciello Rega and condemns this vile act of violence,” the Grand Master said.

Mario Cerciello Rega had participated in the Order of Malta’s pilgrimages to Lourdes and Loreto with his wife, also a volunteer with the Order, where he assisted the sick.