Rome, July 26

The Order of Malta expresses deep condolences for the killing of the 35-year-old carabiniere, Mario Cerciello Rega, which took place the night between 25 and 26 July in the Prati neighborhood in Rome. The vice-sergeant had been serving since 2009 as a volunteer for the Roman delegation of the Order of Malta, distributing meals to the homeless and to people in need at the Termini and Tiburtina stations. A constant and regular commitment he carried out with dedication and passion. This is why in 2013 he was awarded a Merito Melitense award.

“He has always been participating in street interventions scheduled twice a week in the late evening, in critical Capitoline areas such as the major railway stations where it is most likely to find marginalized people and people in need”, as stated in the motivation for the awarding of a bronze medal with swords from the then Grand Prior of Rome, Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto, current Grand Master of the Order of Malta.

“A terrible loss for the whole community. We have lost a generous, loyal man with a profound sense of responsibility. The Order of Malta joins the family of Mario Cerciello Rega and condemns this vile act of violence, “said the Grand Master.

Mario Cerciello Rega also participated in the Order of Malta’s pilgrimages to Lourdes and Loreto, together with his wife, who is also a volunteer of the Order, where she dedicated herself to caring for the sick.