A Visit to the Province of St Paul the Apostle

In between 4–8 June 2026, from the General Office for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), Br. Taucen Girsang, Vice-Director of the Office, made a short visit to the Province of Saint Paul the Apostle, Malta. The purpose was to meet and listen to the friars who have been participating in serving in various JPIC ministries.

Intercultural Church. One of the most significant experiences during the visit was the encounter with the Franciscan international fraternity in Valletta where a Franciscan church is open to welcoming the believers from various nationalities and the ministry is served together by Maltese friars and from abroad - Br. Thomas OFM (India), Br. Arsan OFM (Pakistan), and Br. Jhoan OFM (Philippines). There is a visible reality where the friars are responding to the needs of people coming from diverse cultural, social, and national backgrounds, including migrants and workers from Pakistan, India, the Philippines, and other countries. Intercultural living constantly raises questions about integration, dialogue, communication, and mutual understanding. In this context, according to Br. Ramon Farrugia OFM, the Minister Provincial, the Franciscan spirituality and charism serve as a powerful instrument for unity and fraternity. They enable friars from different nations and cultures to work together in one mission, fostering mutual respect and collaboration. The vision of a Franciscan convent as an “open tent” for friars from all over the world offers an inspiring response to the question of how Franciscan spirituality remains relevant in accompanying the people of our time.

Dar Frate Jacoba: A self-sustaining community. The visit also included Dar Frate Jacoba, a community dedicated to promoting the values of recycling, reusing, and sustainable living, coordinated by Br. Raymond OFM. The project demonstrates an integrated approach that connects animal farming, agriculture, education, vocational training, renewable energy, electric vehicles, and solar power. Such initiatives require adequate personnel, financial support, strong community involvement, and effective systems of cooperation. The experience highlights the importance of developing a structured ministry that can support and expand self-sustaining communities. While the commitment of friars and volunteers remains essential, the involvement of qualified professionals is often necessary to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.

Peace Lab. Another important visit was to Peace Lab, a well-known centre that was visited by Pope Francis during his Apostolic Journey to Malta (April 2022). During the visit, the local JPIC Animator, Br. Dionysius OFM, had the opportunity to meet and speak with the Holy Father. The Peace Lab movement traces its origins to the period following the First and Second World Wars. Its founder was inspired by the urgent need to promote peace and reconciliation in society. Initially, the mission was carried out through radio broadcasting, spreading messages of peace to a wider audience. Over time, educational materials on peace were introduced into schools throughout Malta, helping young people learn about peace-building and the teachings of Pacem in Terris. One of the significant achievements of the movement was its contribution to the establishment of a national Day of Peace in Malta, celebrated annually on 1 July. Today, it is necessity to continue this rich heritage to the future and so the voice of Peace from the Franciscan friars in Malta can be heard.

Soup Kitchen. The Soup Kitchen ministry in Valetta was established by Br. Marcellino OFM six years ago after learning from and collaborating with similar initiatives in some Entities in Europe. The ministry serves people experiencing various forms of vulnerability, particularly those facing mental health challenges and social exclusion. On average, approximately 80 people benefit from the service each day. Beyond providing meals, the ministry creates opportunities for training, volunteering, and active participation in community life. Many professionals—including dentists, nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers—contribute their expertise to support the mission. The project has generated numerous opportunities for service and employment, creating a broad network of social support. The effective operation of the ministry depends on professional management, dedicated volunteers, and the support of a foundation and committee members who oversee fundraising, donations, accountability, and transparent reporting.

The visit to Malta offered valuable insights into the various ways the Franciscan charism is embodied through JPIC ministries. From intercultural fraternity and sustainable living to peace education and service to the vulnerable, these initiatives demonstrate how Franciscan spirituality continues to respond to the challenges of our time in creative and effective ways.