Welcome to the 500th anniversary celebration of the Theatine Regulars! Pope Francis recently encouraged the Theatine order to embrace renewal, communion, and service with joy as they commemorate the solemn profession of their founder, St Cajetan, and his first companions.
As St Peter’s Basilica stands today, it is difficult to imagine that 500 years ago, when St Cajetan and the first Theatines made their vows, the church was more like a construction site than the grand structure we see now. Pope Francis drew on this history to emphasize the importance of taking courageous paths of renewal to remain faithful to their mission.
The Pope emphasized that fidelity must be continually renewed, rooted in tradition but always open to new inspirations. He highlighted the need to work together in community, just as the artisans and laborers collaborated to complete St Peter’s Basilica.
St Cajetan’s legacy of service and charity was also underscored by Pope Francis, who reminded the Theatine order of the importance of rolling up their sleeves to put their faith into action. This spirit of service was exemplified by Jesus himself, who came not to be served but to serve.
Celebrating 500 Years of Dedication
Amidst this jubilee celebration, a large statue of St Cajetan made its way from Ħamrun, Malta, to the Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle in Rome. This statue, depicting a mystical vision involving the Virgin Mary and the Child Jesus, was created by the Maltese sculptor Carlo Darmanin in 1885.
For the first time in its history, this statue has left Malta, where St Cajetan is revered, to be displayed in Rome. The celebratory procession will continue, with the statue returning to Ħamrun at the end of September.
As the Theatine order commemorates this significant anniversary, Pope Francis invites them to embrace with joy the paths of renewal, communion, and service, building on the rich legacy of St Cajetan and his companions.
