Message by Archbishop Charles Jude Scicluna
Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Malta, Your Grace Nuncio, Your Excellencies, dear friends, thank you for your presence here, thank you for your invitation, Archbishop Hon Tai-Fai.
We would like to renew our fidelity to the Holy See, but also our gratitude for the 60 years of diplomatic relations between Malta and the Holy See. As you all know, the Nuncio not only represents the Holy See and the Holy Father to the State, he also brings the Holy Father’s love and solicitude to the local church. And for us, this is a very important anniversary. It reminds us that the Holy Father is our Father in faith, but also very close to our small but ancient community.
As we watch the very short clips that remind us of the four papal visits that are historical highlights of our country’s experience, we recognize that the diplomatic relations are not only formal but also very cordial. The people feel very close to the Holy Father. We want to express our greetings through your own person, Archbishop Hon Tai-Fai, to the Holy Father and the Holy See.
As you mentioned, several Maltese and Gozitans are at the service of the Holy See and this for us is a source of pride but also a constant reminder that we are part of a huge family of faith.
We would also like to thank the Holy See for facilitating dialogue between nations and we feel that what we are celebrating here impacts our lives because the Holy See has always been, in recent history, especially, a presence of reasonableness and loyal dialogue, of which we need very much these days. And so, as I greet you and celebrate the 60th anniversary, I hope and pray that we Maltese will remain faithful to the two meanings of our beloved nation: malat, safe haven, and Melita, the land of honey. Let our welcome be always sweet and welcoming.
Thank you, Your Excellency, and long live the Pope!
✠ Charles Jude Scicluna
Archbishop of Malta