The Missionary Society of St Paul has announced plans for the construction of a new chapel at Stella Maris House in Żebbuġ, Gozo, as part of the ongoing development of the centre’s spiritual and pastoral mission.
For more than five decades, Stella Maris has held a special place in the life of the Society. Established 52 years ago as a centre of spirituality and formation, it originally served as the novitiate house where many MSSP members began their religious journey. Over the years, the house gradually evolved into a retreat centre, welcoming priests, religious, and lay people seeking moments of prayer, silence, and spiritual renewal in the peaceful surroundings of Gozo.
In recent years, a new vision has emerged for Stella Maris. Building upon the missionary charism of the Society, efforts have been made to develop the centre into a more vibrant hub of spirituality and faith formation. Alongside the retreat ministry, a growing community of lay people has begun gathering regularly for prayer, liturgical celebrations, and ongoing spiritual formation.
The response has been encouraging and has exceeded expectations. As participation continues to grow, the need for a dedicated liturgical space has become increasingly evident. The planned chapel will provide a fitting environment for the celebration of the Eucharist, communal prayer, retreats, formation programmes, and other spiritual initiatives that are now taking place at Stella Maris.
The project represents an important investment in the future of evangelisation and spiritual formation in Gozo. While the construction of a new chapel is a significant undertaking, the Missionary Society of St Paul remains confident in the generosity of its benefactors and friends, whose support has made countless initiatives possible throughout its history.
Speaking about the project, Fr Martin Cilia MSSP highlighted the Society’s desire to continue creating spaces where people can encounter God, grow in faith, and experience authentic Christian community. He noted that the new chapel forms part of a broader vision to strengthen Stella Maris as a place of prayer, formation, and missionary outreach for both Gozo and Malta.
The Society is inviting those who wish to support the project to contribute towards the construction of the new chapel. Every donation, regardless of its size, will help transform this vision into a reality and ensure that Stella Maris can continue serving future generations seeking spiritual nourishment and renewal.
Those wishing to support the project may do so through the following methods:
APS Bank
Account Name: MSSP Dar Stella Maris
IBAN: MT84APSB77013000000035443610043
Revolut:
+356 9948 9462
The Missionary Society of St Paul expresses its sincere gratitude to all benefactors and supporters and assures them of its prayers. Through their generosity, this new chapter in the life of Stella Maris can become a lasting gift to the Church and to all who seek a deeper relationship with God.