On June 22nd, the feast day of St. John the Baptist, the Order of Malta’s patron saint, was solemnly celebrated at the Field Cathedral of the Polish Army in Warsaw. H.E. Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi, Apostolic Nuncio to Poland and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, presided over the Holy Mass, which was attended by members and volunteers of the Polish Association of the Order of Malta, diplomats accredited to Poland, and government officials.

In the evening, Ambassador and Mrs Lorijn welcomed c. 110 guests to a reception at their residence, including ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps of over 40 countries, and representatives of the Polish government, international organisations, and cultural and philanthropic entities.

During his welcome speech, Ambassador Lorijn reflected on the growing humanitarian challenges facing the world, noting the record number of armed conflicts, displaced people and those suffering from hunger, poverty and exploitation. He stressed that these crises reflect a deeper erosion of global solidarity and underlined the continued importance of multilateral cooperation, human dignity and humanitarian law in building lasting peace. He highlighted the Order of Malta’s worldwide humanitarian mission, paying tribute to its 160,000 staff and volunteers, including those who have lost their lives in service. The Ambassador outlined the Order’s expanding operations in the Middle East, Ukraine and Poland, emphasising its close cooperation with the Polish Government, particularly in supporting Ukraine and strengthening humanitarian initiatives. He also expressed gratitude to Poland for its longstanding friendship and partnership with the Order, acknowledged the vital contribution of diplomatic spouses and partners, especially his wife Eva, and concluded by calling for renewed commitment to peace, solidarity and service to the most vulnerable.

To download Ambassador Lorijn’s speech please click here.