January marks the beginning of a new year. It is a time when people meet and exchange greetings. On Saturday, 18th January, priests, monks and seminarians met at the Seminary to exchange greetings with Bishop Mgr Mario Grech.
The meeting started with a prayer of thanksgiving to God for standing by the Gozitan Church during the year 2013. Then, on behalf of the members of the clergy, Archpriest Canon Tarcisio Camilleri thanked Bishop Grech for his committment to the Diocese of Gozo and wished him all the best for the new year. He mentioned some future activities to be held for the clergy. Archpriest Canon Tarcisio Camilleri, delegate for the Gozitan Clergy, was standing in for the Vicar General, Mgr Giovanni Bosco Gauci.
It was then Bishop Grech’s turn to deliver his message for the occasion. He said that the Church is losing its importance even in our country. The Church is no longer the main voice of the people but has become just one of many voices.
However, the Bishop stressed that the Church should not be discouraged but should find its strength in the Holy Spirit and come forward and deliver its message. The Church should not be afraid of surprises that may cross its path, but should keep its doors open to new experiences. God may use these experiences to cultivate the faith of His people from a small mustard seed.
Click here to download Bishop Grech’s speech (in maltese)
The members of the clergy were then invited to present their views. After the meeting, refreshments were served.
