A new project has been initiated by a cohort of Order of Malta candidates during their Year of Preparation year, to breed and grow a signature rose to support the Order of Malta’s work in palliative care facilities and nursing homes.

The rose, which has been named ‘Our Lady of Philermos’ will eventually be gifted to residents by our Order of Malta members and volunteers. A planting card will be attached to each Rose, detailing its features, planting instructions and the Prayer of Consecration.

“Members of the Order of Malta are called to provide for and raise up those who are struggling with sickness and poverty” explained project team member, and Order of Malta candidate, David Macintosh. “Along with the alleviation of suffering, it is our solemn duty to inspire these souls with an even greater gift of lifting their hearts and minds in contemplation of their eternal life. How appropriate it is then to present our Rose to our charges, in honour of Our Lady of Philermos, as a thing of beauty in their hour of need.”

The project is still in the early stages. Come this September the first 26 bushes became available and by October 2022 the hope is to have over 300. The project team have already secured six garden locations across the country to grow the Our Lady of Philermos Rose, thanks to the generosity of Australian Catholic University providing space at their campuses.

“As of now our immediate focus is to raise funds for the purchase of 300 rose bushes from Swane’s Nursery and production of the planting cards” said David.

Whilst the primary function of the Rose Project is to provide a gift to the needy, the longer-term goal is to have a limited stock of bushes available for sale with proceeds supporting the ongoing project costs. Expressions of interest for volunteers to plant, care and cut the roses will also be sought in early 2022 (full training will be provided).

Each rose bush and planting card will cost $20. Please consider a tax deductible donation to support this project.