Father General’s visit to Malta
During the exciting period of August 10-14, 2023, the city of Hamrun, on the beautiful island of Malta, was immersed in a fervent atmosphere of religious and cultural celebration in honor of its beloved patron saint, St. Cajetan. However, what distinguished this year’s festivities was the distinguished presence of the Superior General of the Theatines, Rev. Fr. Salvador Rodea González, C.R.
Salvador Rodea González, C.R., a man of deep devotion and spiritual leadership, was cordially invited by the San Gejtanu Music Association, the organizer of the events in honor of San Cajetan. From the very moment of his arrival, his presence radiated a special connection with the Hamrun community and its link to the Theatine order.
Rev. Fr. Salvador Rodea Gonzalez became an active participant in each of the planned events during the course of that memorable week. From the solemn processions to the moving liturgical acts, his presence imparted an aura of solemnity and devotion. He was a first-hand witness to the deep faith of the Maltese in St. Cajetan and his ability to unite the community in a shared sense of belonging.
One of the highlights of his visit was the appointment of Rev.do Fr. Salvador Rodea Gonzalez as Honorary President of the St. Gejtanu Music Association. This recognition reflected the respect and gratitude the community had for him and his order. It was evident that his presence not only strengthened the ties between the Teatinos and the local community, but also highlighted the importance of music and devotion as fundamental pillars of the religious experience.
In addition to his participation in public events, the Reverend Father also found time to enrich himself with the religious and cultural traditions of the city. He visited the St. Joseph’s Association, the pioneer in Hamrun, where he had the opportunity to meet the oldest members of the community and better understand how the historical roots have influenced the social fabric of the city.
Father Salvador Rodea Gonzalez’s generosity was not limited to public events. With a compassionate heart, he shared precious moments with the elderly and visited the sick, bringing them comfort and hope in times of difficulty. Her genuine compassion and caring resonated throughout the community.
The week culminated with a moving ceremony in which the City Trustee recognized Reverend Father for his significant contribution to the festivities and the community at large. It was a well-deserved tribute to a religious leader whose presence left an indelible mark.
During his visit, Rev. Fr. Salvador Rodea Gonzalez took the opportunity to renew the invitation to the St. Gejtanu Music Association to participate in the celebrations for the V Centenary of the foundation of the Teatine Order, scheduled for September 14, 2024 in Rome. This invitation, loaded with historical and spiritual significance, sealed the close relationship between the order and the Hamrun community.
In summary, the visit of Rev. Fr. Salvador Rodea Gonzalez to Hamrun during the St. Cajetan celebrations in August 2023 left an indelible mark in the heart of the community. His active participation in the events, his compassion for those in need and his commitment to the preservation of religious tradition wove a narrative of deep connection and mutual respect. This experience will undoubtedly remain etched in the memory of the people of Hamrun and in the history of the Theatine order.
