On Saturday, 25 March 2023, in the presence of the Grand Master Daniel von Rechitar and the highest authorities of the Order, with the welcome participation of His Beatitude Cosma I Primate of the Italian Autocephalous Orthodox Church, Sir C.G.C. H. Prof. Gabriele Pao-Pei Andreoli and H.E. Giuseppe Buonanno representing Nova Militia Christi, the First Chapter of investiture of the new Priory of Sicily was held at the Principe di Belmonte Estate in Ispica.
The Holy Mass was officiated by Bishop Salvatore Cerruto, episcopal delegate of the Diocese of Noto, while the rite of blessing of the ‘Sword and Cloaks’ was celebrated by Father Cosma. The Liturgy reached its climax when the two priests, of different religions, anointed the new knights and ladies with Holy Oil.
During the ceremony, Baron Francesco Fratantonio, owner of the estate, was appointed Grand Prior of Sicily. The following is part of his presentation speech: ‘May the Lord always illuminate our life paths and accompany us in our new experiences of brotherhood and sharing. I thank you for the important office assigned to me, which I hope to always hold with honour, commitment and dedication and always in the fullness of God’s light….”
The Gala Luncheon was enlivened by the Grand Master’s birthday, who wished to share this moment of joy with all the knights of Fraternitas, present and absent, formulating a message of peace, brotherhood and justice for all the peoples of the world.
