Confraternal Devotions in Malta, 1670–1798

The aims of this article are twofold. It first discusses how confraternities tried to improve the spiritual worth of their members. The brothers conducted their devotions communally in their oratory, confessing and receiving the Eucharist, hearing mass and listening to sermons. They also participated in processions while the liturgy of the suffrages for the dead was recognised as the special task of confraternities. The brethren also practised their own private devotions, like examination of conscience and the adoration of the host. Second, the brethren were not concerned solely with themselves but they influenced the other parishioners, who followed their example.