2026 International Malta Camp Complete!

On the afternoon of August 2, the Team USA – Federal Association's delegation officially began its International Malta Camp 2026 adventure, departing from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) with excitement, anticipation, and grateful hearts. Our delegation of 30 members (guests, volunteers, clergy, and leaders) set out for Spain, eager to experience a week of faith, fellowship, and service alongside young people from around the world.

As the Team USA - Federal Association arrived in Javier, they were met with the warm hospitality for which our Spanish hosts are already becoming known. Our President Ernie Bono, the Executive Director Deacon Michael Stankewicz, Father Luke Millette, our volunteers, and our guests received a heartfelt welcome, complete with refreshing cold lemonade after a long day of travel.

This year’s International Malta Camp proved to be much more than a trip: it was an opportunity to grow in faith, deepen friendships, and live out the charism of the Order of Malta through joyful service and authentic community. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Castle of Javier, campers took part in a variety of integration activities designed to build friendships across countries and cultures. Archery, water games, a bouncy castle, and an energetic slip-and-slide kept everyone smiling despite the summer heat, and language barriers quickly disappeared through laughter and teamwork.

We are especially proud that, as in the last few years, the Team USA - Federal Association has brought one of the largest (if not the largest) delegations to this year's camp, despite traveling across the ocean. Our guests, volunteers, clergy, and leadership are representing the United States with joy, enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to the mission of the Order of Malta.

Whether exploring the Spanish countryside or remaining at camp, everyone returned with stories to share and smiles on their faces. The diversity of activities allowed each participant to experience a different side of Malta Camp while continuing to build friendships with fellow campers from around the world.

Year after year, this Camp continues to demonstrate its lasting impact on the younger members and volunteers of the Order, fostering meaningful friendships, encouraging personal growth, and inspiring participants to look beyond themselves in joyful service to others.

My most sincere gratitude and appreciation go to all our fantastic Helpers: Andrew, Anthony Q., Ashley, Claire, David, Gillian, Kaley, Margaret, Miki, Reid, Rick K., Tony Z., and Veronique. They selflessly dedicated their time, talent, and treasure to serving our dear Guests and, in doing so, recognizing in each of them the face of Our Lord Jesus Christ, in keeping with the Charism of our beloved Order. Each of them made a significant personal commitment to participate, generously giving both their time and resources and remaining on call 24/7 to care for and support our Guests.

Allow me to recognize and thank the key people who made this Camp truly unique: Rich Mena, Jr., KM, Andy J. Craig, KM, Sarah L. Nelson, Aux., Jack R. Bohling, Aux., and Jose (Tony) Kaufmann, Aux.

We couldn't end without thanking our President, our Executive Director, our Chaplain, and the Grants Committee: Ernie Bono, GCMOb, Deacon Michael Stankewicz, Fr. Luke Millette, and the Grants Committee of the Federal Association USA.

For Team USA, it has been a privilege and a blessing to be part of this remarkable international family. Federal Association – Team USA is deeply grateful for every moment—and now, with Spain behind us, we can already begin looking forward to Vienna 2027!

Please click here for a week-long summary with photos of the 2026 International Malta Camp