The old church of Birkirkara, which is dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady, is celebrating the feast of Santa Marija this week with a musical festival between tomorrow and Friday and a historical exhibition in the sacristy on Saturday and Sunday.

There will be a daily concert at 7.15 p.m., to which entrance is free. Members of the pastoral zone's community will play classical and contemporary music.

On Thursday the San Gwann council orchestra will also take part, while Friday's concert will feature the renowned St Monica's Choir.

The exhibition, which includes photographs recording the 17th century church's restoration process and community activities, as well as sacred robes and original sculpture, since replaced, will be open on Saturday from 4.45 to 5.45 p.m. and from 7 to 8 p.m. and on Sunday, the feast day proper, between Masses and in the evening from 4.30 to 5.45 p.m. and from 7.30 to 8.45 p.m.

After the 6 p.m. Mass on Friday, to be celebrated by the outgoing rector, Fr John Sammut, there will be a pilgrimage with the statue of Our Lady.

On Sunday, after the 10 a.m. Mass, there will be a church parade by the Birkirkara Boy Scouts. At 6 p.m. Fr Sammut will lead a concelebrated Mass to mark the end of his pastoral term. This will be followed by a reception in the pastoral centre.