On 27 June 2023, Rev. Dr Stefan Attard, Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Malta, and Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi, Auxiliary Bishop of Malta and member of the Department of Pastoral Theology, Liturgy and Canon Law within the same Faculty, inaugurated and blessed Casa Fratelli Tutti, a house which welcomes student-priests from developing countries who wish to read for a Licentiate in Sacred Theology (with specialisation in Pastoral Ministry) at the University of Malta.
The aim of Casa Fratelli Tutti - named after Pope Francis’ 2020 encyclical ‘Fratelli Tutti’ which addresses fraternity and social friendship -- is to provide students from developing countries with the opportunity to continue their studies in Malta, despite the financial and cultural challenges they may face. Currently, there are five priests from Nigeria and Zimbabwe residing in the house.
Casa Fratelli Tutti is located at the entrance to the Archbishop’s Seminary in Tal-Virtù in Rabat and consists of five bedrooms, a kitchen, a chapel and a living room. An agreement signed in March 2021 by the Faculty of Theology and the Archdiocese of Malta stipulates that the house will be used by the Faculty for this pastoral and missionary purpose for a period of 15 years.
Present at the inauguration were officials from the Ministry of Education, members of the Faculty of Theology, student residents, as well as benefactors and collaborators. The Dean of the Faculty of Theology stated that through this project, the Faculty is tangibly assisting its students who will offer a better service in their home countries. He also expressed his hope that, in a world full of challenges, Casa Fratelli Tutti will continue to foster fraternity, social dialogue and solidarity in a practical way. Dr Attard expressed his gratitude to all benefactors and collaborators, particularly Prof. John Berry, former Dean of the Faculty, who made this project and its desired outcome possible.
Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi said that Casa Fratelli Tutti is based on what Pope Francis wishes society and the Church to be, that is, communities that welcome others. He emphasised that this house gives respect and dignity to student-priests who come to Malta to be able to serve their home countries better. The presence of these students also benefits the University of Malta and the Church in Malta.
The maintenance and running expenses of the house are covered by the Faculty of Theology itself. Those wishing to offer support may visit the webpage or contact the Faculty by email.