The first operative step has been taken with the Order of Malta’s Conventual Church for opening its convent in Rome. This morning, in the presence of the Order of Malta’s Grand Commander, Fra’ Emmanuel Rousseau, the Order of Malta’s Receiver of the Common Treasure, Fabrizio Colonna, signed the agreement with Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome, for use of part of the historical complex of San Martino ai Monti. It consists of the Dominican monastery of the Santissima Annunciata that, after some restoration and refurbishment, will house the Order of Malta’s convent and novitiate. Also present at the signing was Monsignor Renato Tarantelli, Vice-Rector of the Diocese of Rome.

The agreement signed today represents a further step forward for the Order of St. John, in the wake of the Order’s spiritual renewal strongly supported by Pope Francis. This will allow the Melitense institution to receive professed and novices from all over the world in Rome. In the coming month of October, some members of the Order will complete their aspirancy, a first approach to religious life, and begin the novitiate, that is the path of discernment through which, in community life and under the guidance of their instructors, their vocation for the Order of Malta’s charism will be tested.

The renovation of the entire complex, which will guarantee the full usability of a space of almost 3,000 m2, will start soon. In accordance with the Instrumentum laboris decided by the Chapter of the Professed in February 2023, the project provides ample areas to be allocated to the convent and novitiate with adjoining conventual church.