Within the framework of the assistance provided to Pilgrims visiting Rome during the Jubilee Year, on 10 September the Grand Hospitaller Josef D. Blotz, accompanied by Ambassador Domenico Arduini, Coordinator of the Medical Activities of the Order of Malta, paid a formal visit to Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome and Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St John Lateran. On this occasion, the Grand Hospitaller also met with the volunteers on duty and the respective coordinators.
During the meeting, the Grand Hospitaller expressed his deep gratitude to Cardinal Reina for the constant support extended to the Order of Malta’s volunteers and outlined the organizational commitment that the Order has undertaken throughout the Jubilee Year, alongside its ordinary activities in Rome and worldwide

Cardinal Baldassare Reina, in turn, conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Grand Hospitaller for the valuable contribution that the Order of Malta’s First Aid Post is providing to the Basilica’s organization. He also commended the quality and professionalism of the service rendered and expressed the hope that this fruitful collaboration may continue in the future, particularly on the occasion of major ecclesial events involving the Basilica.

Since the opening of the Holy Year, more than 2,600 volunteers have ensured uninterrupted service at the First Aid Post of the Basilica of St John Lateran, providing professional healthcare assistance to pilgrims and the faithful. This effort has been supported by a dedicated coordination structure, service protocols, and continuous training and supervision, ensuring a high standard of care throughout the entire period.
From January to August 2025, over 290 emergency medical interventions were carried out at the Basilica, with a marked increase during the months of major Jubilee events. The services delivered range from minor medical assistance to urgent interventions requiring ambulance transfers.