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White Cross Ball of New York City Celebrates 10th Anniversary, Supporting the Order’s Global Humanitarian Efforts

11/20/2025 

On Friday, November 7, the White Cross Ball of New York City welcomed over 400 guests in support of the Order of Malta’s global humanitarian efforts. Organized by the NYC Area’s St. John Committee, the Ball raises funds for Malteser International Americas, the Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem, and Malta Camp USA for young adults with disabilities.

Congratulatory remarks on the occasion of the Ball’s 10th anniversary were made by American Association President Kenneth Craig, GCM, before a special video marking the work of the beneficiaries.

The previous evening, the St. John Committee hosted a special reception for patrons and benefactors, held at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Parish House, with the Rector of St. Patrick’s, the Very Rev. Enrique Salvo, ChM. Following an opening prayer by Fr. Salvo, Fra’ Nicola Tegoni, Member of the Sovereign Council, reflected on the Order’s mission and the Ball’s 10th anniversary. Guests were joined by American Association President Kenneth Craig, GCM, Ambassador Peter McGuire, GCMOb, and H.E. Ambassador Paul Beresford-Hill, KMOb, CBE, Ed.D.

On behalf of the St. John Committee, Chair Mercedes de Guardiola, DM, offered remarks, with special thanks to Area Membership Chairs Camille Kelleher, GCMoB and Rory Kelleher, GCMoB for their support of the committee since its formation in 2014. The Committee is deeply grateful to the NYC Area under Area Chairs Steve Bujno, KM and Eric Vitale, KM for their leadership throughout the year and especially to the Fr. Salvo for extending the exceptional hospitality of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and its staff.

The Committee looks forward to hosting its Spring Knights cocktail fundraiser on Friday, April 24 in support of the NYC Area’s volunteer works, including the Malta Mobile Ministry, annual flu vaccination clinics, Circus at Mother Cabrini Specialty Hospital,  karaoke nights at Mary Manning Walsh, and Malta Walks. Tickets will go on sale in January. For patron and sponsorship opportunities, or to inquire about joining the Committee, kindly email info@stjohncommittee.org.

Click through the photos below to see a slideshow from the White Cross Ball.

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