Saturday, 3rd October 2026

7:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Our Lady of Carmel Sanctuary, Valletta

Everyone

Prayer Spaces will offer a welcoming place to pause, reflect and pray.

Maltese and English

Pause. Reflect. Pray.

On Saturday, 3 October 2026, Valletta came alive for Notte Bianca, Malta’s annual celebration of arts and culture. During this special evening, the SDS and Prayer Spaces team welcomed children, young people, families, adults and tourists to experience Prayer Spaces at the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Valletta.

A quiet moment in a busy city

Amidst Valletta’s lively streets, visitors stepped into the sanctuary, admired its beauty and explored the Prayer Spaces. It was heartwarming to see people pause to reflect, write prayers and engage with activities about courage, hope, forgiveness, care for creation and their relationship with God. Each visitor experienced a personal moment of stillness, reflection and prayer.

Everyone was welcome

Prayer Spaces welcomed people of different ages and backgrounds. No previous experience of prayer was needed. Each activity included a simple explanation, and participation was always personal and voluntary. Whether visitors stayed for a few minutes or explored several activities, they were offered an opportunity to pause, listen and become more aware of God’s presence.

Together in prayer

This experience formed part of the SDS theme Togetherness. Through prayer activities such as Protective Shield, George Cross, Hopes and Dreams for Malta, Megalithic Question, Building Bridges and Prayer for the World, visitors were encouraged to connect with God, one another and creation, remembering those in need and reflecting on how they could bring more peace, kindness and hope into the world.

We extend our heartfelt thanks and prayers to Fr. Alex Scerri O. Carm., Prior of the Sanctuary Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Carmelite community for hosting us.

Notte Bianca 2026 reminded us that even in the heart of a vibrant city, there is always room for stillness, hope and prayer.

This event is part of the Prayer Spaces programme.