The Diocese of Gozo is once again presenting Shema – A Night Illuminated by the Eucharist, this follows on from the success of its inaugural edition [1] in May 2023,
The event, which is taking place on Saturday, the 2nd of May, 7pm until midnight, takes its name from the Hebrew word Shema (“Hear, O Israel”), the opening word of a central biblical prayer recited daily in Jewish tradition (Deut 6:4-5).
Set in the heart of Victoria, the evening will feature a wide range of more than 20 free cultural and spiritual activities, all inspired by the Mystery of the Eucharist, which lies at the core of the Church’s life and remains a central focus of the Diocese’s pastoral plans.
Blending the atmosphere of a notte bianca with a distinctly Christian identity, the programme will include immersive experiences, live musical performances, outdoor artistic installations, themed food stalls, and activities for children.
The Diocese said that churches, public buildings, streets, and squares across the city centre will serve as venues, allowing visitors to explore the event through a guided route and discover different aspects of the Eucharist along the way.
The initiative brings together a broad spectrum of participants, including Church communities, local organisations, and individual artists, aiming not only to convey a strong spiritual message but also to celebrate Gozo’s cultural heritage and traditions.
Featured performers include soprano Dorothy Baldacchino, harpist Jacob Portelli, violinist Pierre Louis Attard, singer Hannah Theuma, choreographer Deborah Agius, the Beta Entertainment Theatre Academy (dir. Jamie Camilleri), the Seguna Folk Group (dir. Michael Curmi), and the Maltese Association EspressjonArti Gharb.
Throughout the evening, audiences will also be able to enjoy performances by several children and youth choirs from across Gozo, together with the Kor Levita Laurentius and the Diocesan Choir under the direction of Dorienne Portelli. The latter will perform on the main stage in Independence Square, followed by the closing concert by the Gozo Youth Orchestra (dir. Mro Dr Joseph Grech).
A live panel discussion will also return, with the participation of the public and focusing this year on the contemporary relevance of the Holy Mass. The discussion will be moderated by Fabian Demicoli.
Earlier in the day, at 10am, the public is invited to attend a talk at the Bishop’s Curia courtyard in Republic Street, where Dr Dennis Mizzi (University of Malta) will speak on Primitive Liturgical Environments in the Holy Land. Later on that evening, the same venue will host readings by experienced readers, featuring texts on the Eucharist drawn from Scripture and Church Tradition.
Among other highlights is an interactive exhibition exploring the history and development of the Eucharist, hosted in the underground floor of the Curia, which will remain open in the weeks following the event. Visitors can also experience a series of Eucharistic-themed candle installations set up along Republic Street.
For this special occasion, the Gozo Cathedral Museum will open its doors free of charge, offering access to its unique collection of artistic treasures.
Photos: Diocese of Gozo from the 2023 event