On Thursday, October 3rd, the Connecticut – South West Area gathered for its annual Mass and dinner with Bishop Frank Caggiano. Over 140 Knights, Dames, Year of Formation Candidates, Auxiliary and Associates joined together for a beautiful Mass celebrating the Feast of the Guardian Angels and the Renewal of our Promise to the Order of Malta. Bishop Frank shared a moving homily on our guardian angels and how we are called to be “earthly angels” to those we serve in our ministries. Following the homily, His Excellency Francis J. McCarthy, Member of the Sovereign Council and Magistral Delegate of the Irish Association, led us in the renewal of our Promise.

After Mass, members and guests enjoyed cocktails and dinner at Woodway Country Club. The program highlighted the incoming 2025 Class of 23 new Knights and Dames, who will be invested this November, and introduced the nine newest Year of Formation members of the 2026 Class. Milestone medals were presented to many of our members, and heartfelt thanks were offered to Ray Dunn for his many years of faithful service leading Eucharistic Ministry. A warm welcome was extended to Kathryn Colluci as she assumes this ministry. Appreciation was also expressed for the unwavering support and dedication of Mary Beth and Bill Fessler. The evening concluded with the presentation of the Noble Award to Dame Rosemary DeGrado (Class of 2024) for launching and leading Malta Walks Ministry in Bridgeport.

It was truly a beautiful evening of faith, fellowship and celebration. We extend special gratitude to Bishop Frank, F.J. McCarthy and all our chaplains; to Maureen Considine for organizing such a beautiful liturgy; to Mary Beth Fessler, Lisa Schofield, and Lisa Von Stephenagle for overseeing the dinner and venue; and to our check-in and clean-up teams who ensured every detail was perfect. Your service and dedication made this evening very memorable for the South West Connecticut Area.