On 24 June, to celebrate the Nativity of John the Baptist, the Embassy and the National Association in Romania (AROM) of the Order of Malta were hosted at the Apostolic Nunciature by the Apostolic Nuncio to Romania and Moldova, Archbishop Giampiero Gloder, and who was joined by Mons. Ioan Robu and Fr. Gabriel Daniel Popa.

In total, over 20 people took part in the Holy Liturgy at the Chapel in the Apostolic Nunciature, including Ambassador of the Order to Romania, HE Roberto Musneci; and President of the Order’s Relief Corps in Romania (SAMR/Maltez), Mr Mihály Dénes; together with other Knights, a Dame, and Candidates of the Order, who were also joined by family members. After the liturgy, Mons. Gloder hosted the participants as guests at a small reception in the Apostolic Nunciature.

The significance of the Nativity of St John the Baptist on 24 June each year for the Catholic Church and the Order is particularly noteworthy, as the Church celebrates only three nativities: that of Christ, that of our Lady, and that of John the Baptist. This indicates the importance of St John, who occupies an eminent position in the line of Saints, and furthermore, is the Patron Saint of the Order of Malta.

You can learn more about the three entities of the Order of Malta active in Romania today below:

1. The Relief Service of the Order of Malta in Romania (Maltez/SAMR)  https://maltez.ro/  

2. The National Association of the Order of Malta in Romania (AROM) Order of Malta in Romania (@OrderofMaltaRO) / X

3. The Sovereign Order of Malta Embassy to Romania. Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Romania

Please note: No other groups or organisations in Romania are associated with the Order of Malta.