During the first few days of his pastoral visit to San Francisco, Archbishop Paul Cremona O.P. met with Maltese emigrants at the ‘Maltese American Social Club’ as well as at the residence of the Consul General of Malta, Mr Louis Vella, where the Archbishop had the opportunity to personally meet the Maltese.
In the course of these meetings, the Archbishop spoke about the mission which each person is called to, particularly those missions which eminate from Baptism, which requires the Christian to live a life of faith and personal witness. The Archbishop stated that this is the precise reason for these visits: to encourage emigrants in their mission, which as time goes by, becomes more and more demanding.
At the Consul’s residence, the Archbishop also referrred to the voluntary sector and thanked all those present who helped to organize his pastoral visit. He encouraged them to carry on with their efforts which serve to unite the Maltese communities
Another special occasion was the Mass which the Archbishop celebrated for the Maltese community at the Cathedral of St Mary. During this time of prayer, the Archbishop encouraged Maltese people to feel proud of the faith which they received through grace, recognizing that this carries with it a responsibility to nurture that same faith and pass it on to those who come after them. This is only possible if one remains united in Christ, he said. Referring to the Bishops Synod which will convene next October, during which the new evangelization will be discussed, the Archbishop stated that although the foundations of faith never change, the gift of faith needs to be passed on in such a way that it caters to contemporary needs.
Today, Tuesday 8th May, the Archbishop will visit those Maltese persons who are infirm and in hospital; tomorrow he shall celebrate Mass on the occasion of the feast of St George Preca.
Rapport/ritratti: Fr Alfred Vella