A Memorandum of Understanding detailing a collaboration between the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation and the Jesuits Church Foundation has been signed, thus signifying an important co-operation between the two entities.
Whilst presiding over the signing of the MOU, Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici stated that the two foundations share the same aim, that of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations. “I am pleased to see the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation reaching out to help other entities,” concluded Minister Bonnici.
Among other objectives, the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation will offer its services and fund the restoration and conservation of three paintings in one of the chapels of the Jesuit church and the painting of Mattia Preti depicting Our Lady, St Charles Borromeo and St Francis de Sales.
Prof. Mgr Emmanuel Agius, President of St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, stated that, “This MOU will open the Co-Cathedral’s doors to assist other Churches built by the Order of St John.”
Michael Pace Ross, Administrative Secretary of the Archbishop’s Curia, said that, “The Archdiocese welcomes this collaboration taking place between these two foundations, and we believe that this is the starting point of collaboration between the two entities.”
Dr David Camilleri, the Jesuit Church Foundation President, stated that, “Both the Jesuits Church and St John’s Co-Cathedral share a very rich history, and are exquisite examples of fine architecture and art. By joining forces with the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, we can continue restoring the Jesuit Church in its pristine condition, thus increasing the accessibility of our national heritage to all.”
Constructed between 1593 and 1609 by the Jesuit Order, the church of the Circumcision of Our Lord is one of the oldest and largest churches in Valletta. It was rebuilt in Baroque style by Francesco Buonamici, after sustaining extensive damage during an explosion in 1634. Nonetheless, after the Jesuits were expelled from Malta in 1768, the church remained in use. A new foundation for the Jesuit Church was established in July 2021, in order to keep building on the conservation efforts of this beautiful temple.