On January 21, a huge congregation of some 3,000 faithful packed Xewkija Basilica to pray with Mgr Mario Grech on the eve of his episcopal ordination.

The first part of the vigil consisted of singing, prayers, biblical and sacred readings, a mime and a homily delivered by Xewkija archpriest Mgr Carmelo Mercieca, who highlighted the characteristics of the Good Shepherd and the flock.

Mgr Grech then made a solemn declaration of faith and took his oath of loyalty to the Church to Apostolic Nuncio Mgr Felix del Blanco Prieto. The bishop's insignia - the ring, the mitre, and crozier - were blessed by the Apostolic Nuncio.

The prayer vigil ended with a Eucharistic benediction.

Mgr Grech delivered a short address of thanks, first to God and then to the bishops present: the Apostolic Nuncio, outgoing Gozo Bishop Nikol Cauchi, Archbishop Joseph Mercieca, Bishop Annetto Depasquale, and Bishop Sylvester Magro.

Bishop Grech, who thanked Xewkija parish for hosting the vigil and those who helped organise it, spent some time receiving people who wanted to congratulate him personally. The congregation appreciated the new bishop's gesture, especially when he received children and young people.

Xewkija Basilica was a 'cenacle of prayer' which fostered a profound spiritual bond among all the faithful present with the new Bishop of Gozo.