UMTAL is a non-profit voluntary organisation under the patronage of HE the Archbishop of Malta.

UMTAL is an acronym of the name given to the Society set up in 1931 by HE Archbishop Mauro Caruana. Italian was the main language in the Maltese Islands at the time, hence the name “Unione Maltese Trasporto Amalati a Lourdes”, which was later translated to Maltese as “Għaqda Maltija Trasport għal-Morda f’Lourdes.”

UMTAL celebrated its 90th anniversary during the annual pilgrimage in July 2022. His Excellency Archbishop Charles J Scicluna led this pilgrimage of 180 pilgrims, volunteers and sick persons together with UMTAL’s Chaplain the V. Rev. Canon Joseph Mizzi.

Every year, a team of doctors, nurses, carers and lay volunteers give up their free time and, at their own expense, enrol to look after patients to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all. A number of relatives also accompany patients. Pilgrims are also welcome to join our group.

Preparation and organization starts early in the months leading up to the pilgrimage. Patients are examined and their medical and nursing requirements are assessed and provided for. Reservations for suitable accommodation, as well as dietary requirements and mobility aids are ordered well in advance.

Spiritual preparation for the pilgrimage also takes prominence. The Chaplain leads sessions of prayer and celebration of Mass for the organising committee, helpers and pilgrims.

Our volunteers come from all walks of life and because not all of them come from the caring or medical profession, UMTAL takes care to offer the training needed to be able to help during the pilgrimage.

We encourage all those interested in joining our pilgrimage to make contact and we will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

During the pilgrimage we will include the following:

• Maltese Mass at the Grotto
• Way of the Cross
• Penitential Rites
• International Mass
• Eucharistic Procession
• Baths / Water Gesture
• Aux Flambeaux Procession
• Maltese Mass with Anointing of the Sick Sacrament