In a statement on Saturday afternoon, the Bishops of Malta said that “after taking note of and following the public indications given by the competent health authorities, the Bishops of Malta and Gozo have decided that no other pilgrimages will take place this year.”

The spike in Covid-19 cases continued today with another 21 cases recorded, leading to the response by the Bishops.

The statement was signed by Charles Jude Scicluna Archbishop of Malta, Mario Grech Apostolic Administrator of Gozo, Joseph Galea-Curmi Auxiliary Bishop of Malta and Anton Teuma Bishop-elect of Gozo.

On Thursday, the Minister for Health, in new measures announced, said that no permits will be issued by the authorities for band marches to take place during village feasts, while the pilgrimage on the feast day will be limited to 100 people, always social distanced. Dr Fearne explained that this was with an agreement with the Church.

File photo by Alain Salvary

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