The Order of Malta celebrated the Jubilee of Grand Priors, Regents and Presidents of National Associations over the weekend of February 28th to March 2nd. The Sovereign Order united its international leaders together in Rome, using this opportunity to host a conference discussing the impact of ongoing humanitarian initiatives and to strengthen relations between the 120 countries who are part of this order. 

One of the humanitarian topics discussed was the necessity to move with the times and the importance in adapting economically and industrially to new technologies. 

The Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo supports the idea of the Order of Malta embracing the digital age with the opportunity to modernise the outlook their society has on the future. 

In the future of the Order of Malta lies the fact that, not betraying any of its traditions, it must enter the third millennium. Entering the third millennium means connecting with a new leading class,” he noted. 

Further he highlighted, “In the third millennium we need to take technologies into account because technologies will be of great use to us. They are extremely useful, for example, think of artificial intelligence: it can help us when there are emergencies. There are so many things that can be done today because of these tools. But there, too, you have to equip yourself.” 

The weekend concluded with the Sovereign Order processing through the Holy Door at the Papal Basilica of St Mary Major, praying for the health of Pope Francis and celebrating Mass led by Cardinal Gianfranco Ghirlanda who was appointed Cardinal Patron of the Order of Malta by the Holy Father in 2023. At the end of the Mass, the Cardinal, together with the Grand Master and Grand Commander advanced in procession to the relic altar of the Holy Crib. 

Adapted by Jacob Stein 

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