John Bason writes:
It was December 14 when I received the news that Fr Joseph Orr had passed away. Although he was 97, nobody was expecting such news.
Born on February 24, 1916, in Msida, he studied at the Seminary in Floriana and began his novitiate in Sicily when he was 16. He studied philosophy and theology in Italy and was ordained a Jesuit priest on April 22, 1944, in Rome by Cardinal Traglia.
He took his last vows on August 15, 1951, in Naxxar. During his priestly vocation, he was, among others, prefect of boarders at St Aloysius’ College, Birkirkara, a spiritual director and a teacher in various government schools.
He helped in the foundation of the Young Christian Workers, in the 4Ts and also in various Maltese parishes. During the early 1960s, he was in charge of the construction and helped with fundraising at Mount St Joseph Retreat House in Tarġa Gap.
Between 1966 and 1971, he worked in Italy where he helped set up the Lega Missionaria Studenti in Rome, which spread all over Italy. He was also instrumental in the formation of young volunteers groups working in Brazil and Africa.
Back in Malta, on April 14, 1973, he founded the Adults Friendship Group, whereby he provided the opportunity for adults of all ages to meet each other, always organising social, recreational, educational and spiritual activities. I came in contact with Fr Orr and the Friendship Groups in October 1985, being informed by my aunt, who had attended the first meetings in 1973.
I used to attend the TSC group meeting every Monday, and later on, the Links Group, for whom he celebrated the first Friday Mass up to the beginning of 2013. Fr Orr was continuously at the disposal of the members and whoever sought his advice.
He was always there for us, whether for confessions, advice, guidance or to listen to our grief. One must not overlook the spiritual formation he gave the members and the possibility for single people to meet. Some members met through the group, married and formed good Christian families. His determination to move forward was impressive and his thinking was avantgarde.
He was always very active, and his energy, enthusiasm and creativity were formidable, even in his 90s. He utilised every minute of his life for the good of others.
In September 1995, he was awarded the Elderly of the Year prize for his sterling service in youth apostolate.
Oh Lord, you sent your servant on this earth who fulfilled your mission faithfully to the end. Grant him eternal rest.