Churches and Spirituality in Malta: Your Guide to International Communities and Spiritual Offerings

Malta as a Spiritual Hub: What to Expect

It’s true, Malta is 98% Catholic—every guidebook will tell you that. What you don’t read: The island has nurtured a lively, international spiritual scene. The reason? So many expats, students, and long-term residents from all over the world.

The Religious Landscape at a Glance

Alongside 365 Catholic churches (yes, really—one for every day of the year) you’ll also find:

• At least 12 Protestant congregations with English-language services
• 3 Orthodox churches of various traditions
• A small but active Jewish community
• Muslim prayer rooms in Valletta and Sliema
• Buddhist and Hindu groups
• Diverse spiritual centers for meditation and alternative practices

Why Malta is Spiritually Surprising

The island benefits from a long history as a crossroads of cultures. The Knights of Malta, British colonial days, and EU membership have all left their mark. Today over 100 nationalities are represented here—bringing their spiritual traditions along with them.

On top: Over 15,000 permanent residents hail from other EU countries.

What does this mean for you? Chances are you’ll find a congregation that suits you—even if you’re not Catholic. And even if you are, there are international Catholic communities here that are quite different from traditional Maltese ones.

Catholic Churches in Malta: Tradition Meets International Community

Let’s start with the obvious: Catholic churches. But even here, there are key differences that matter for expats.

International Catholic Communities

The Stella Maris Church in Sliema is your go-to place. Masses are held in English and the community is distinctly international. Sunday Masses at 9:30 am and 6:30 pm. I was skeptical at first—thought it might be just a “tourist church.” I was wrong: You’ll find expat families, students, and long-term residents. The atmosphere is much less formal than in traditional Maltese parishes.

The Sacred Heart Church in St. Julians offers English-language Masses on Sundays at 11:00 am. Special touch: the Filipino community here is very active. If you’re after international Catholic spirituality with an Asian flavor, this is your spot.

German and Italian-Language Catholic Masses

Yes, they exist! The German Catholic community meets every second Sunday of the month at Stella Maris Church. Contact is via the German Embassy or the Facebook group Deutsche in Malta. The Italian community is larger and gathers at the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Balluta Bay—every Sunday at 5:00 pm.

What does this mean for you? As a Catholic expat, you can choose between traditional Maltese parishes (intimate, tight-knit, often only in Maltese) or international communities. The latter are more open to newcomers; the former are distinctively Maltese.

Protestant and Evangelical Communities: English-Language Spirituality

This is where it gets interesting for any non-Catholic Christians. Malta has a surprisingly active Protestant scene—a legacy of British colonial days, now strengthened by modern expat communities.

Anglican Churches: British Traditions

The St. Pauls Pro-Cathedral in Valletta is the flagship church. Sundays at 8:00 and 10:15 am, traditionally Anglican yet open-minded. Here youll meet British retirees, Maltese Anglicans, and international professionals. The church itself is architecturally stunning—you’ve probably seen it on Instagram.

Practical tip: After the 10:15 service, there’s coffee and pastries in the parish center—perfect for meeting people. I met my dentist there (British expat, living in Malta for 15 years).

Evangelical and Free Churches

The International Church Malta in San Gwann is the largest international Protestant church. Services at 10:30 am on Sundays, modern worship music, international preaching. You’ll find American missionaries, German expats, and Scandinavian digital nomads here.

• Baptist Church Malta (Gzira): Sundays 10:00 and 18:00
• Pentecostal Church (Msida): Sundays 10:30, lively services
• Methodist Church (Floriana): Sundays 10:15, traditional style
• Lutheran Church (Valletta): Every second Sunday 11:00

Special Services for Expats

Many Protestant communities offer specific expat programs. The International Church Malta hosts Newcomer Lunches every first Sunday of the month. St. Pauls Pro-Cathedral has an Expat Bible Study Group on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm.

Insider tip: The Union Church Malta in Sliema. Interdenominational, very international, casual vibe. Here you’ll meet expats from a range of Protestant backgrounds. Service at 10:30 am on Sundays, with a group lunch afterward (5 euros contribution).

What does this mean for you? As a Protestant, there’s more choice in Malta than you might think. Services are international, English-speaking, and very used to welcoming newcomers. Expect a more open and informal style than back in Germany.

Orthodox and Eastern Churches: Tradition in Diversity

Malta is home to a small but vibrant Orthodox community, mainly supported by Greek, Russian, Serbian expats and students from Eastern European universities.

Greek Orthodox Church

The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation in Valletta is the focal point. Sunday services are at 10:00 am in Greek, with English translations available. The community is small (about 200 members) but very welcoming.

Special highlight: Each April, the community organizes a Greek festival at Upper Barrakka Gardens. Greek food, traditional music, and open doors for everyone. I attended last year—it was more authentic than any taverna visit in Crete.

Russian Orthodox Community

Meets every Sunday at 11:00 am at the Chapel of St. Nicholas in Msida. The congregation is mainly Russian IT professionals and their families whove chosen Malta as their EU base. Services are in Russian, but the priest is fluent in English.

Serbian Orthodox and Other Eastern Churches

The Serbian Orthodox congregation meets monthly, usually renting different spaces. Contact via the Facebook group Orthodox Christians Malta. Romanian and Bulgarian Orthodox Christians organize themselves in a similar way—small groups but very active.

What does this mean for you? As an Orthodox Christian, you’ll find a small but dedicated community in Malta. Services are intimate and authentic. Don’t expect grand cathedrals, but you will find personal connections and strong support.

Alternative Spiritual Experiences: Meditation, Yoga and More

Beyond traditional churches, Malta is home to a growing alternative spiritual scene—fuelled by international residents bringing their own practices, and locals seeking fresh perspectives.

Meditation and Buddhism

The Malta Buddhist Centre in Attard offers regular meditation sessions and Dharma talks. Every Thursday at 7:30 pm there’s an Introduction to Meditation for beginners, and advanced groups meet Sundays at 10:00 am. The center’s director is a British expat living in Malta for ten years.

The Vipassana Meditation Group Malta meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at rotating locations. Contact via their Facebook page. It’s a vibrant mix of German yoga teachers, Italian psychotherapists, and Maltese doctors.

Yoga and Holistic Centers

Malta’s yoga scene is more developed than you might expect. Yoga Malta Studio in Gzira is the largest, with daily classes in various styles. Pricing: 15 euros per single class, 120 euros for a monthly pass.

Special tip: Beach Yoga at sunrise. Various instructors offer sessions at Golden Bay or Mellieħa Bay. 10 euros per session, usually Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7:00 am. Sounds cheesy, but it’s truly magical.

• Ashtanga Yoga Malta (St. Julians): Traditional Ashtanga style
• Hot Yoga Malta (Sliema): Bikram style, heated to 40°C
• Yin & Yang Yoga (Valletta): Gentle styles, also for seniors
• Aerial Yoga Malta (Msida): Yoga with hammocks

Spiritual Retreats and Workshops

Malta is becoming known as a retreat destination. The Ta Cenc Cliffs Retreat Centre on Gozo offers weekend retreats in meditation, yoga and spiritual awakening. Packages start from 180 euros for a weekend, including accommodation and vegetarian meals.

Regular events:

• Full Moon Circles: Monthly, changing locations, mostly outdoors
• Sound Healing Sessions: Thursdays at Healing Space Malta (Birkirkara)
• Reiki Circles: Every other Saturday in Sliema Community Centre
• Crystal Healing Workshops: Occasional, mostly in Valletta

Interfaith and Spiritual Dialogue Groups

The Interfaith Malta Network organizes monthly discussion rounds. Representatives of various religions and spiritual traditions come together. Next dates on their website or Facebook page.

The Philosophy Café Malta meets every second Wednesday to debate spiritual and philosophical topics, usually at Valletta cafés—free to attend.

What does this mean for you? Malta offers a surprising selection of alternative spiritual experiences. The scene is small but lively and international—a great way to try something new or find like-minded people.

Practical Tips: Finding Your Spiritual Home in Malta

Theory is one thing, practice is another. Here are my hands-on tips for expats or long-term residents looking to quickly plug into Malta’s spiritual scene.

First Steps: Getting Oriented

Facebook is your friend: Almost every religious and spiritual group has a Facebook page. Search for: “Malta + [your religion/tradition],” “International Church Malta,” “Expats Malta Spirituality.”

Try out different communities: I recommend attending at least three different services or sessions before you settle down. Each group has its unique vibe.

Join WhatsApp groups: Many spiritual communities run on WhatsApp. Ask about the group at your first visit.

Getting Involved in the Community

Overcoming Language Barriers

Even in English-speaking congregations, you’ll often hear Maltese. Don’t worry! Most Maltese will instantly switch to English if they see you’re struggling. Still, it helps to know:

• Learn basic phrases: “Sahha” (Hello), “Grazzi” (Thank you), “Skuzi” (Sorry)
• Ask for translation: “Sorry, could you translate that?” always works
• Use liturgy apps: Many Catholic churches have apps with multilingual texts

Timing and Transportation

Watch out for Sunday traffic: Maltese families traditionally head to 10:00 am Mass. Streets and buses are packed between 9:00 and 11:00 am. Allow extra time or opt for a different time slot.

Bus apps are a must: The Malta Public Transport App or Tallinja App offer real-time updates. Warning: buses run less frequently on Sundays.

Car sharing: Many communities organize informal ride-shares. Ask about “lifts” or “car sharing” when you visit.

Costs and Donations

Most services and spiritual sessions are free. However, donations are always welcome:

• Catholic churches: 1-2 euros in the offertory
• Protestant churches: 5-10 euros monthly is common
• Yoga/meditation: 10-15 euros per session
• Retreats: 50-200 euros depending on package

Respecting Cultural Differences

Dress code: Maltese churches are conservative. Shorts and flip-flops are a no-go, even in summer. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Festa season: From June to September, local church festivals (Festas) are everywhere. Loud, colorful, and very Maltese—the perfect chance to discover local traditions.

Ramadan and other holidays: Malta respects all religious holidays. Check the calendar, as opening hours may change.

What does this mean for you? With the right approach, youll find your own spiritual home in Malta within 4-6 weeks. Be open, be patient, and make the island’s international openness work for you.

FAQs about Churches and Spirituality in Malta

Are there German-language church services in Malta?

Yes, the German Catholic community meets every second Sunday of the month at Stella Maris Church in Sliema. Contact is via the German Embassy or the Facebook group Deutsche in Malta. There are no regular German-language Protestant services, but occasional events are held.

How do I find prayer rooms as a Muslim in Malta?

There are several prayer rooms, mainly in Valletta (Marsa Mosque), Paola, and Sliema. The Malta Muslim Association also organizes Friday prayers. Contact them via their Facebook page or the Islamic Cultural Centre Malta.

Are church services in Malta very traditional?

It depends on the congregation. Maltese Catholic churches are very traditional. International Protestant communities are usually more modern and relaxed. International Church Malta and Union Church feature contemporary worship music and a laid-back atmosphere.

Can I attend Maltese churches as a non-Catholic?

Absolutely! Maltese churches are open to everyone. You don’t have to participate in communion, but you are always welcome. Many international visitors use the opportunity to experience Maltese culture this way.

Are there spiritual activities for children and families?

Yes, most larger congregations offer Sunday schools and kids’ programs. International Church Malta has a very active Kids Club. Yoga studios offer family yoga sessions. The Malta Buddhist Centre has special meditation classes for teens.

How much does it cost to join spiritual activities?

Services are free, donations suggested (1–5 euros). Yoga sessions cost 10–15 euros; meditation is usually 5–10 euros. Retreats vary between 50–200 euros depending on length. Many congregations offer free introduction events as well.

Is there a spiritual scene on Gozo too?

Yes, but it’s more limited. Gozo has several Catholic churches with English-language masses, Ta Cenc Retreat Centre, and occasional yoga sessions. The choice is smaller, but the atmosphere is often deeper and more in touch with nature.

Are there interreligious activities in Malta?

The Interfaith Malta Network organizes regular dialogue events. The Philosophy Café Malta hosts spiritual topics that cross religious lines. During Ramadan and other holidays there are often open cultural events from a variety of communities.

How can I as an expat quickly feel at home in faith communities?

Attend newcomer events, volunteer, and join WhatsApp groups. Most international congregations have dedicated expat programs. Social events after services are ideal for making first contacts. Expect 4–6 weeks for full integration.

What’s the appropriate dress code for Maltese churches?

Conservative: shoulders and knees covered, no shorts or flip-flops—even in summer or for tourists. International congregations are often more relaxed, but respectful clothing is always the safest choice.