The Bishops of Malta and Gozo have expressed their gratitude to the Maltese and Gozitan people for the “joyful, cherished and faithful welcome” given to His Holiness Pope Francis in this “bright land,”’ as he described it.

In a statement Archbishop Charles Jude Scicluna, Gozo Bishop Anton Teuma and Auxiliary Bishop Auxiliary Joseph Galea-Curmi said that these were two days that “`brought joy and peace to our hearts, and strengthened our confidence that, as a country we can contribute to focusing on the needs of the weakest.”

The bishops also expressed their “strong confidence that the visit of St. Peter’s successor in our country will strengthen our energies in order to restore the beauty of the human rights,’ putting the vulnerable at the centre of our choices, and as Christians we find our joy in the commitment to deliver the Good News.”

Particular appreciation was expressed to the hundreds of people who gave their time, energy and their professionalism so that this visit could take place: the Organising Committee of the Church and the State Organising Committee, Law Enforcement and the Disciplined Forces, health authorities, the College of Parish Priests and parishes, volunteers, staff of the Curia and other Church entities, the local media and all the media that were of service to those who followed from home, as well as to all those others who contributed.

Photo: popefrancis.mt

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