A press conference was held on Tuesday 23rd March 2010, during which the Interdiocesan Committee responsible for the Papal Visit, gave details regarding the Mass which will be celebrated by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, on the Granaries, on Sunday 18th April.

Mons Charles Cordina, the Coordinator of the Committee, stated that, following the pattern of Pope Benedict’s visits in other countries, this Mass will be the principal activity.  Mons Cordina went on to state that a strong participation of the general public is expected.  For this purpose, the seating capacity will be around 5000.  Some seats will be reserved for elderly persons (over 75 years of age) and for other persons who are wheel-chair bound.  There will also be an area assigned for persons who are hearing-impaired, where the mass will be facilitated by sign-language.

During the press conference, plans for the main podium were presented.  The design of the podium has been entrusted to Carlo Schembri, who together with Architect Joe Bondin, is supervising its construction, as well as the general layout of the Granaries, for the occasion.  Carlo Schembri explained how the podium has been designed in such as way as to ensure that the centrally-located Cross will closely unite the Pope to the rest of the congregation.  The podium, as well as the sedia on which Pope Benedict will sit, will be constructed out of recycled material.  Architect Bondin confirmed that all precautions are being taken to ensure that no damage is done to the Granaries during the construction process.

Fr Jesmond Manicaro, who is responsible for the liturgy, said that after the mass, the Pope will present Bishop Mario Grech with the rosa d’oro for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu in Gozo.  This is a golden rose which is presented by the Holy See to some churches, in recognition of their importance as Marian sanctuaries.  In the past, this rose was presented by the pope to the sovereign kings of Catholic countries.

Silvio Farrugia, deputy Coordinator of the National Committee, who is responsible for logistics, said that owing to the large number of persons who are expected to attend this activity, it is highly recommended that people make us of public transport.

The mass shall commence at 10am.  Pope Benedict will arrive beforehand and will go through the crowds in the Popemobil.  The procession, led by the Pope, which will start at the Church of St Publius, will also pass from among the congregation.  After the mass, the Pope will recite the Regina Coeli, a prayer which is usually led by the Pope in St Peter’s Square.  The mass will be transmitted live from over 60 television stations throughout the world.

Information with respect to this activity, as well as other information regarding the papal visit may be obtained by calling infoline 188 or by sending an email to [email protected]

For more information on the Pope’s visit to Malta, visit www.popemalta.org

Click on the photo to enlarge. The photos of this activity may be purchased from PHOTOCITY, Valletta. Tel: 21236723. Email: [email protected]