The programme for Saturday 7th May was rather different from that of other Saturdays. The community left the Seminary early in the morning for the annual pilgrimage to The Madonna Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary. The early morning serenity provided the right atmosphere to accompany us in our recital of the Rosary. The Spiritual Director explained that in the context of the Jubilee of Mercy this pilgrimage should take the dimension of a penitential pilgrimage.
In the last part of the pilgrimage, the Rector of the Sanctuary, Fr Gerard Buhagiar, shared some reflections linked with the niches situated on the road that leads to the Sanctuary. Then we went through the Door of Mercy and on to the Chapel of the Apparition for the celebration of the Holy Mass. Following the reading of the Gospel, Seminarians Michael Grima and Carl Scerri, and Deacons Joseph Attard, Massimo Buttigieg and Mario Curmi, placed one hand on the Gospel and, in the presence of the Blessed Eucharist and in front of the holy image of the Assumption, they pledged their vows prior to their ordination as deacons and priests respectively.
Deacons Joseph, Massimo and Mario are to be ordained priests at the Gozo Cathedral on Friday 20th May. Seminarians Michael and Carl are to be ordained deacons on Friday 24th June at the same cathedral.