Bishop Pace monument inaugurated

Almost a year and six months after the demise of the internationally known sculptor Vincent Apap (1909-2002), his full figure monument of Mgr Giuseppe Pace (1890-1972), Bishop of Gozo, was inaugurated yesterday at St George's Basilica in Victoria.

The official inauguration and blessing was preceded by solemn vespers sung by the collegiate chapter and the basilica's Laudate Pueri Choir (directed by Fr George J. Frendo). Bishop Nikol Cauchi, who is also Dean of the Chapter, presided.

The blessing was followed by an inaugural concert of sacred works by the Newcastle Anglican Cathedral Choir directed by Scott Farrell.

Apap had put his heart and soul in the execution of this marvellous monument, despite his advanced years. He received this commission in 1997 from Mgr Joseph Farrugia, acting for the chapter and clergy, as well as the Kumitat Storiku Kulturali of St George's Basilica.

The work took much longer than was expected for technical reasons. The artist, who was in constant contact with the local foundry entrusted with the work, was aware of them and worried about them as it was in his nature to start and finish his commission without delay. Despite all these hiccups as soon as the newly built foundry was commissioned, work resumed at once. The result was an excellent work of art.