On Saturday, 15th May, 2010, after a demanding week in Toronto, we arrived in New York. The visit to Canada was rounded-off with a social activity which was attended by around 500 people. It was a beautiful and joyful occasion both for His Grace, who made time to speak to everyone present, as well as for the Maltese community, who renewed their bonds with one another. The following people were instrumental for the organization of the activity: Fr Karm Borg MSSP, the parish priest of the Maltese Community; his colleague Fr Dominic Cachia MSSP and the Committee of the Church of St Paul the Apostle, which is situated in Dundas.

The Committee of the Maltese American Society in Astoria, New York, together with the Maltese Ambassador to the United Nations, Mr Saviour Borg and the Maltese Consul, Mr Wilfred Mallia, organized a gathering for the Maltese community. Archbishop Cremona celebrated mass at the Parish Church of Most Precious Blood. Among other priests who concelebrated with Msgr Cremona was Fr Gellel, who has served in the parish for the past sixty years. After mass, a social activity was held in the Club, located in the adjacent square, which since 20 January 2010, has been named Malta Square.

On Sunday, His Grace was invited to concelebrate with Msgr Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, in the Cathedral dedicated to St Patrick. The Maltese delegation attended the Mass, together with the Committee members of the Maltese American society. Also present were those who last Easter received their baptism and were welcomed into the fold of the Catholic Church. There were also some religious sisters who were celebrating their anniversary.

Some official calls were made; among these were visits to the Offices of the United Nations and to the residence of the Maltese Ambassador. Archbishop Cremona also called upon the Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency Msgr Celestino Migliore. During these meetings, all the parties extended their acquaintance with one another and showed appreciation for the beneficial work that is being done in favour of the Maltese community, as well as the community in general.

The pastoral visit of Archbishop Cremona has now reached its end and in his very own words, it has signified, above all, a meeting with our Maltese sisters and brothers – a meeting which has served not only to renew friendships but also to confirm that the Church in Malta is interested in their spiritual needs, as well as their welfare and all the successes which they may achieve.

Fr Alfred Vella