From 1 to 5 May 2026, H.E. Ambassador Stefano Palumbo and Counsellor Stiven Shala participated in the 68th International Pilgrimage to Lourdes of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, held at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France.

The annual pilgrimage, one of the most important spiritual events of the Order of Malta, gathered approximately 7,500 participants from 44 countries, including members, volunteers, healthcare professionals, clergy, young people, and over 1,300 malades at the heart of the pilgrimage experience.

The pilgrimage was led by the Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Fra’ John T. Dunlap, together with senior leadership of the Order, including Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo and Grand Hospitaller Josef D. Blotz.

The programme included solemn liturgical celebrations, moments of prayer at the Grotto of Massabielle, the Marian torchlight procession, and meetings among the international delegations of the Order. The pilgrimage renews a tradition dating back to 1958, reflecting the Order’s enduring mission of Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum – the defence of the faith and service to the poor and the sick.