The Order of St. John and the Roman inquisition : 1771-1777

Abstract

The dissertation is divided into five chapters. The first sets the scene for the whole dissertation as it endeavours to trace the general history of both institutions, the Order of St. John and the Inquisition. Chapter two investigates who were the main protagonists of the time, each individual being examined. The third chapter surveys the relationship the Inquisition had with the Order of St. John, over the years that Monsignor Lante resided in Malta. It discusses the patentees, who were they and they were of key importance in the relationship the Inquisition had with the Order. The chapter also dwells on the question of Freemasonry in Malta because in most cases Freemasons were knights. The fourth chapter, centres round the relationship the Order had with the Church in Malta and the peacemaking initiatives the Inquisitor endeavoured to do in order to sustain harmony. The chapter examines closely the unrest here was amongst the numerous dependents of the bishop, immunity, the rebellion of the priests and then the way to reform. The last chapter then deals with the Inquisitor as the judge of faith where he was supreme. This gave him more power than both the bishop and the grand master with the result that petty issues escalated into enormous problems.