Article by Tyrone Grima
The Prayer Vigils, or as they are more commonly referred to in Malta, the IDAHOT celebrations, have been held on our islands for almost twenty years. Drachma, the local LGBTIQ+ NGO that focuses on the integration between sexuality and spirituality in its bridge-building with the Catholic Church, has always given importance to this event, traditionally held on the 17th of May (or close to that date). Although there were a few of them that I missed out on, as the oldest member of the group (not in years, although getting there, but in years of attendance), I have treasured moments of this annual event. Yet, year in, year out, two salient aspects emerge, no matter the format that this event took over the years.
- Sense of community
IDAHOT is an event where the community comes together and in a reflective mood expresses itself on a profound level, whether through Mass, a prayer gathering, or a spiritual walk. Throughout the year, Drachma organises several events aimed at deepening the sense of community. But IDAHOT stands out in being an event where this sense of community extends to a wider audience. Hence, this communitarian feeling between the two branches of Drachma – the LGBTIQ+ and the parents – becomes a testimony of love encompassing the rest of the community.
- Social justice
IDAHOT is also a space where as a community we remember that despite the implementation of progressive laws in our country, there are still many LGBTIQ+ people who regularly suffer. This day becomes an opportunity to renew our pledge to keep on fighting to ensure that all those who are deprived of their basic human rights and still live in fear are granted their dignity.
This year we celebrated IDAHOT on the 16th May at the University Chapel, which is run by the Jesuits. Saturday evening Mass, celebrated weekly at the chapel by Father Patrick Magro, focused on the LGBTIQ+ community, inviting the congregation to pray for the overcoming of homotransphobia. The Mass commenced with a brief introduction by Louisa Grech, coordinator of Drachma parents, and members of our group read the liturgical readings. Instead of a traditional homily, Chris Vella, current coordinator of Drachma LGBTIQ+, and one of the parents, Paul Mifsud, shared their insights. It was a truly moving moment to witness the empathy of the congregation, many of whom stayed over after Mass, to engage in further dialogue with Drachma. It is such moments that bring a smile to our faces and our souls, as we realise that despite that there is still so much hope, so much care, so much love, so much possibility.
The poster for the past vigil.