At a time when many traditions seem to fade, a ceremony like the investiture of the Knights and Dames of the Order of Saint Mary of Bethlehem might seem, at first glance, like something from another era—an elegant albeit outdated ritual.
Yet judging by the turnout and enthusiasm on Sunday, November 9 at the Vizzini Social Club in Coburg, the Italian Australian community sees it differently.
Interest in the Order’s knighthood has grown, drawing club presidents, association representatives, partners and supporters who, through their presence, have given new energy to a tradition rooted in community identity and shared history.
The day began at St Anthony’s Church in Hawthorn, where Father James Grant celebrated Mass with Father Raffaele Rossi at the organ, in a ceremony that was understated but meaningful.
The new inductees were Dames Maria Alesci, Maria Rosace, Lina Powderly, Antonietta Zappulla, Francesca Giorlando, Salvina Latela and Grazietta Lolicato; Knights Santo Lolicato, Claudio Tolli, Gaetano Bongiorno, Anthony Pirera, Rosario Cannatella, Tommaso Zuccarelli and Vito Gallo; and Commanders Santo Paul Lolicato, Salvatore Giandinoto, Fausto Reforgiato, Concetto Alesci, Orazio Mammola and Giacomo Vitale.
Each approached the altar as family members and guests looked on, marking the moment in which they formally joined the Order.
After the service, the procession made its way to the Vizzini Social Club, where a full and lively hall awaited them. As the Knights and Dames entered, they walked between two lines of applause, their white mantles catching the lights while the musical duo Anna and Ozzie performed the Australian and Italian national anthems.
Once the formalities ended, the atmosphere shifted to something more social. Nearly 300 guests took their seats at tables decorated with Australian flowers and a carefully arranged setting for the community lunch.
The official welcome came from Santo Zappulla, Grand Officer of Justice and Delegate for Victoria, accompanied by his wife Antonietta. He thanked the attendees for their support and for “helping keep our history alive and our commitment to the community strong”.
The master of ceremonies, Frank Di Blasi—well known in the community for his long-standing involvement in establishing and supporting many organisations—then introduced the guests who had travelled from Italy: Prince Grand Master Angelo Amoroso D’Aragona, his son Prince Dario Amoroso D’Aragona with Dame Paola Grazia Franco, and the Grand Chancellor Grand Collar, Paolo Cecconato. Their arrival was met with warm applause.
During the lunch, which featured a series of traditional dishes, speeches and musical interludes alternated throughout the afternoon, Zappulla recalled the founding values of the Order and the responsibility carried by every Knight and Dame.
Prince Amoroso D’Aragona then spoke, reflecting on the deeper meaning of the Order’s spiritual and cultural heritage, drawing inspiration from his earlier address in church.
“How do we interpret our origins? With pride, not with honours earned only through our deeds. Can we really believe that a ceremony or a mantle defines us? Within us, Kratos—strength—must coexist with Archè—the power that becomes action.”
Later in the afternoon, as glasses were raised and conversations continued, the music encouraged guests to take to the dance floor. The dance of the Knights and Dames brought a touch of elegance and lightness to the room, closing the event on a warm and celebratory note.
