Heard in the Hive

In 1806, the city of Vittoriosa (Birgu) and the surrounding harbour area were rocked by a terrible explosion. A gunpowder magazine located at the southern end of Vittoriosa Wharf, where the Royal Navy had just established its headquarters, accidentally blew up, killing some 150 people and leaving a huge mound of debris. The area came to be known as l-Imgarraf (the destroyed site).

Most of the victims were buried in St Lawrence Cemetery where the Vittoriosa Historical and Cultural Society recently affixed a marble tablet to commemorate them on the 200th anniversary of the explosion. It was unveiled by the society's president, Canon Paul Raggio, who also said Mass in the adjoining chapel.

Historian Anton Attard chronicled the horrors of the event. Vittoriosa mayor John Boxall placed a wreath at the foot of the tablet. The ceremony was brought to an end with the playing of the Last Post by a contingent of Scouts.

In a separate event, the Textile Department of Heritage Malta Bighi Centre for Conservation recently finished works to restore and conserve La Vallette's hat.

The hero of the Great Siege of 1565 was undoubtedly Grand Master Jean Parisot de La Vallette who led the staunch defence of Malta and observed the battle with the Ottomans from Birgu.

In the thick of the fighting he personally joined the front-line at the Post of Castile. Throughout the siege, La Vallette spent moments of recollection and prayer in the chapel of Our Lady of Damascus of the Greek community in Birgu.

After the victory, as a sign of thanksgiving and by way of ex-voto, he donated his ceremonial hat and battle sword to the chapel where they remain to this day.

The restoration project to conserve the hat was financed by the Cottonera Rehabilitation Committee, whose chairman, Dr Ray Bondin, presided over the inauguration at the Vittoriosa Museum at St Joseph Oratory.

Among the distinguished guests were Canon Joe Caruana, Archpriest of Vittoriosa, and the volunteers who serve as museum attendants, all members of the Vittoriosa Historical and Cultural Society, which organised the event.

In his speech, Dr Bondin stated that carbon tests carried out at the University of Lecce on a sample from the hat's cloth confirmed that the hat dated to the mid-16th century. The Vittoriosa Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to noon.

New German ambassador welcomed

Over 120 Maltese and German members of the German-Maltese Circle and staff from the German embassy in Malta recently attended a reception organised at Messina Palace in St Christopher Street, the Circle's premises in Valletta, to welcome the new German ambassador to Malta, Karl Andreas Freiherr von Stenglin, and his wife Amélie-Sophie Freifrau von Stenglin.

The reception was also attended by representatives of organisations with special ties with Germany, among whom directors of German manufacturing companies in Malta.

In his welcoming speech, Circle president Albert Friggieri referred to the new ambassador's outstanding diplomatic career which he spent among others in Paris, Uganda, the Czech Republic, Senegal and India. He spoke about the excellent relations existing between the German-Maltese Circle and the German embassy in Malta.

Mr Friggieri highlighted the fact that among the various positions of great responsibility held by the new ambassador in the past, was that of head of the personal office of former German Federal President Richard von Weizsäcker.

Mr Friggieri reminded those present of the visit which the former Federal President had paid to the Circle in 1990 as part of his state visit to Malta. On that occasion, President von Weizsäcker had called the German-Maltese Circle a "unique association" and pointed out that it could very well become a model for future German cultural associations abroad.

"As it turned out, those were prophetic words," Mr Friggieri said. Many German cultural clubs and even several former Goethe Institutes outside Germany are now modelled on the set-up which has characterised the German-Maltese Circle since its foundation 44 years ago.

Mr Friggieri concluded by wishing the new German ambassador success in his work and a pleasant stay in Malta.

In his reply, the new German ambassador thanked the Circle for its hospitality and emphasised that he would continue to work so that the special relationship between the embassy and the German-Maltese Circle would not only continue but also grow stronger.

Maria Gauci, the Circle's language co-ordinator in Gozo, then presented a bouquet of flowers to Freifrau von Stenglin and some framed Gozitan lace to the German ambassador.

Lions Club organise fund-raising dinners

Two fund-raising events were recently organised by Lions Club Mdina. One was a Mediterranean Fish evening, hosted by past president Mary Anne Abela, who kindly made her residence in High Ridge available for well-attended annual event.

Delicious homemade fish dishes, prepared by the committee ladies were served during the evening, while the band The Quacks entertained the guests with Eighties tunes.

Another event was a Turkish Night, hosted by secretary Roberta Said, who offered her residence in L-L-Iklin for the event. The highlight of the event was the Lija fireworks display, which could be enjoyed by the guests, while enjoying delicious Turkish food.

Proceeds from these two events will go towards a charitable cause.

Knights' investiture ceremony

To commemorate the feast of its patron saint, the Order of St John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, Russian Grand Priory of Malta and Europe, recently held an investiture ceremony at the World Headquarters in Valletta. The event was attended by officers and members of the order, as well as a number of distinguished local and foreign guests.

The impressive two-hour ceremony was presided over by Lieutenant Grand Master, Victor M. Xuereb.

In a welcoming address, Bailiff Paul M. Borg, Grand Commander and Grand Prior of Malta, expressed the Order's thanks and appreciation to all the Knights and Dames who are always present to offer some of their spare time to work for and contribute towards the Order.

"A word of special thanks also goes to those who have, throughout the years, kept up with their financial contributions," Chev. Borg added.

Welcoming the new candidates to the Order, the Grand Commander emphasised that "this growth in the number of active members of our Order is of utmost importance if we are to increase our beneficial aids to yet even more people in need."

Mass, led by Fr Alfred Sacco, SDB, a prelate of the Order, followed. The Lieutenant Grand Master then invested six new candidates as Knights of the Order - Roberto De Santis, Giovanni De Filippo, Professor Pietro Marano and Dr Alfredo Cocchiaro from Italy, Peter Conrad from Australia, and Mario Coleiro.

The ceremony was concluded with the award of promotions for services rendered to the Order. Donations were also handed out to five charitable institutions.

The next investiture ceremony by the Order of St John will be held on December 16 at its World Headquarters in Valletta.

J-Anvil leaves his mark at Celebrity Street

Performer J-Anvil left his handprint in Celebrity Street recently, joining a growing number of personalities honoured in this way at the Bay Street Complex.

J-Anvil arrived in a sleek chauffer-driven limousine, courtesy of John's Garage. He was welcomed by Bay Street's marketing and events manager, Martin Sapiano, who later also joined him on stage.

After the Celebrity Street hand-print ceremony, J-Anvil, a versatile showman, gave a mini-concert at the Rotunda introducing his new CD album 13 and screening its music video. During the show J-Anvil was accompanied by a number of dancers.

J-Anvil shot to fame following his instant success at the 2005 Song for Europe contest when he participated for the first time with the Charleston-themed song, You, and immediately placed third at this first attempt. Since then, his popularity has grown as he won over the Maltese public with his great charisma and talent.

Successful Mnarja night for Id-Dar tal-Providenza

Mnarja Fil-Port Il-Kbir, the first fund-raising activity organised on June 28 by the AX Foundation at the Valletta Waterfront in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, was a great success. The aim of the event was to raise funds to acquire physiotherapy equipment for the Siggiewi residential home for the disabled.

The evening was a folklore event with an abundance of traditional food, sweets and drinks, and entertainment provided by popular singers. In the course of the enjoyable evening, there was folk dancing and special events for children.

The trustees of the AX Foundation announced that the net proceeds from the evening amounted to Lm3,500. As agreed with Mgr Lawrence Gatt, who is responsible for the running of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, the AX Foundation will use this money to purchase the equipment.

Sterling inaugurates new shop at the Valletta Waterfront

Sterling Jewellers' 25th outlet was recently inaugurated at the Valletta Waterfront by IT and Investments Minister Austin Gatt.

Alfred Fenech, chairman of the Sterling Group of Companies, welcomed the Minister and Mrs Gatt, Fr Hilary Tagliaferro who blessed the outlet, and distinguished guests to the new outlet. He explained that this new location at the Valletta Waterfront is not Sterling's first experience at the port, as way back in 1896, Sterling's flagship store happened to be in St Mark's Street, targeting the people arriving to Valletta by boat.

Minister Gatt congratulated Sterling on their new project at the Valletta Waterfront which, he said, will continue to enhance the Waterfront as a high quality destination and a new locus of commercial activity. He wished Sterling every success in their new venture.

The new outlet at the Valletta Waterfront, measuring 150 square metres, caters for visitors arriving in Grand Harbour on cruise liners who do not want to venture far from the ship.

Mr Fenech also launched Calgaro, a brand incorporating textiles of pure value, passionate exuberance of colours, an ultimate degree of technology and most of all disarming beauty. A pair of exquisite materials distinguishes Calgaro's endeavour. The revolution takes place suspended from a slender, airy, ever-changing thread. He emphasised that Calgaro is a jewel, a finishing touch, a detail. But above all, it is an idea, a plan, a brand with its own identity. He also thanked Valentina Pistinizi from Calgaro who was present for the launch.

Ending his speech, Mr Fenech said that he was pleased that Sterling offers a vast choice of jewellery and that all the 25 outlets are located in strategic locations offering the best service to their clients.

Guests at the opening of the outlet could also admire a brilliant display of jewellery worn by very attractive models.

Excellent turnout at BoV staff summer party

Hundreds of BOV employees attended this year's summer party held at the Reef Club, Westin Dragonara Resort in St Julian's.

The party took the form of a themed night - Flavours of the Middle East - and included a lavish buffet barbecue dinner on a Middle Eastern theme.

The main attraction of the evening was the BoV Rock Band, Alien 8, who performed a varied programme of pop and rock songs. This was followed by an open air disco at the Reef Club Pool Deck.

The annual summer party is a well-established event in BoV's annual calendar of staff activities.

The President and Mrs Fenech Adami's engagements August 28-September 3

Tomorrow
10 a.m. The President is presented with a copy of a book published by the Ghaqda Socjali 8 ta' Settembru entitled Discover the North... the Locality of Mellieha, by Carmel Vella at the Palace, Valletta.

Wednesday
Noon The President is presented with a donation in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund by Shaun Wallis, CEO of HSBC, as a sponsor for the concert by Renzo Spiteri and N'Faly Kouyate at Verdala Palace.

Thursday
10.30 a.m. The President receives Speaker Anton Tabone at the Palace, Valletta.

Friday
10 a.m. Mrs Fenech Adami presides over a Malta Community Chest Fund working committee at the Palace, Valletta.
8 p.m. The President attends the official inauguration of the Marija Bambina Hall at the Peace Band Club in Naxxar.

Saturday
8 p.m. The President and Mrs Fenech Adami attend a concert by Renzo Spiteri and N'Faly Kouyate in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund at Verdala Palace.

Sunday
9.30 a.m. The President attends a reception hosted by the Naxxar council on the occasion of the feast of Maria Bambina and is presented with donations of various organisations in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund.

First winners with shopping lottery

Charles facshion show of 35, Republic Street Valletta is the outlet where the winning transaction of the first draw of the BoV Streets Alive Shopping Lottery was made. Following the first draw, both the shop owner and the cardholder have won a Flyaway Tour package for two.

The aim of the BoV Streets Alive Shopping Lottery is to further support the concerted efforts to generate more business activity in Malta's capital city. It is designed to add value to the BoV Streets Alive programme of events.

Speaking during the presentation of the prize to Patrick Camilleri, owner of Charles Fashion Store, John Pace, manager at BoV Card Services, said: "We are delighted to note that the BoV Streets Alive initiative is turning out to be highly successful. The response from the public during the first two Fridays of the BoV Streets Alive programme has exceeded expectations. We are confident that the BoV Streets Alive Shopping Lottery is helping to generate further business activity in Valletta and to help revive Malta's capital in the evenings."

All payments made by BoV cards (Cashlink/MasterCard/Visa) on any BOV EPOS terminal in Valletta between July 28 and August 18 automatically enabled the cardholder and the shop owner to participate in the lottery.

Four Flyaway Tour packages, every week were being made available by Bank of Valletta. Two of these Flyaway tours were won by the customer who makes the winning transaction. The other two Flyaway tours were won by the shop in whose BOV EPOS terminal the winning transaction would have been processed.

37th Malta Air Rally

The International Air Rally of Malta came to a successful end for the 37th time early last month. The chairman of the International Air Rally of Malta, Capt. George E. Kissaun, presented the trophies during a much-awaited prize-giving ceremony, which is the highlight of this annual aviation event.

In spite of being organised entirely by volunteers, the Malta Rally has always generated great interest abroad, and is well-known for consistent professional standards. It is very highly regarded, especially in view of the unbiased, accurate and fair judging of its numerous competitions.

Capt. Kissaun heads the organisation, and with his infectious enthusiasm and energy has contributed greatly to all 37 Malta rallies. Thanks to his active part in the International Air Rally, and his deep involvement in other related areas, general aviation has entrenched itself on the island with obvious benefits to the country. Ever since its inception, the Malta rally was a major contributor to the various aviation organisations which have been set up since.

During his speech, Capt. Kissaun thanked his family, committee members, hostesses, judges and all other helpers who continue to make it possible to hold such an international event.

Among the distinguished guests were representatives of companies and other organisations who believe in the tremendous potential of Malta's economic future. These entities support the voluntary organisers of this renowned annual event, for which they were also thanked.

For the second consecutive year, the overall winner was Michel Horat from Switzerland. John O'Brien from the UK, and Carole Soufflet, from the French Aero Club du Dauphiné - placed overall second and third respectively. Four major competitions contribute towards the overall placings. Mr Horat, newcomers Philippe Mine (France), who had his young son Hubert as co-pilot, and Mr O'Brien took the first three awards in the arrival competition, in that order.

The Timed Section competition was won by Mr O'Brien, followed by another newcomer, John Couch from the UK, and Mr Horat. Mr Soufflet, Frenchman Bernand Bertrand, also new to the Malta Rally, and Mr Horat placed first, second and third respectively in the Flight Planning Competition.

The highest-scoring Concours d'Elegance aircraft were a Rockwell Commander, a Cessna Skylane and a Socata Trinidad, flown by Mr O'Brien, Stuart Chater from the UK, and George Benecos from Greece, in that order.

Other competition winners were: Mr Horat - George Cross; Mr Chater - Longest Distance Flown; and P. Mine - Novice. Kevin Brennan from the UK was judged the Most Sporting entry for the sheer determination in reaching Malta in spite of all the problems he met on the way!

Rallyists from four out of the six participating countries won major and/or minor awards. Results covered a good mix of entries, proving that careful perusal of competition rules pays off - when coupled with excellent flying skill - even for new participants in the International Air Rally of Malta.

People

Francesca Aquilina, a law student at the University of Malta, was recently awarded a four-year scholarship at the prestigious Napier University in Edinburgh.

During these four years Francesca will have the opportunity of studying voice at the Ian Tomlin School of Music. Graham Weir, the head of the Music Department at the University, was in Malta in July to audition candidates. This scholarship was made possible through Dr Ian Tomlin, who donates a music scholarship to promising Maltese musicians who wish to undertake a four-year undergraduate Bachelor of Music with Honours programme of study at the Ian Tomlin School of Music in Edinburgh.

Students can choose instrument, voice or composition as their first study with supporting academic studies which include performance skills, conducting techniques, teaching modules and music therapy among others.

Ms Aquilina has been training with soprano and voice tutor Gillian Zammit for the past seven years. A Drama Troupe student, she obtained her ATCL in musical theatre in 2004 and recently passed her Grade 7 singing exam with distinction. She twice received exhibition awards for obtaining the highest marks among students in Europe. She has participated in various musical theatre productions, the latest being Sondheim's Into the Woods, where she played the part of Little Red Riding Hood.

Ms Aquilina will in fact be returning to Malta in November to play the role of Maria in West Side Story, which is being held at the Manoel Theatre. She has participated in several local and foreign workshops including a summer course at ArtsEd in London and master classes and workshops with foreign tutor Denise Mulholland and Jeremy Walker of the Westminster Boys Choir. She is presently a singing tutor with Drama Troupe and has just returned from a Lamda teacher's training course in London.

Epoka festival ends tonight with a great show

After a highly successful four-day run, the Valletta Waterfront Epoka festival comes to an end tonight. Together with an extensive programme of activities, the big finale of the stage is left in the hands of Zoo to get the audience into a two-hour laughing fit. The Valletta Waterfront Epoka festival is being produced and promoted by Synergix Events Group.

The programme catering for all tastes starts at 7.30 p.m. Warmed up by the parade of a typical Maltese festa brass band, visitors are spoilt for choice, with a variety of stalls, exhibiting traditional crafts and food delicacies; archery, pole-jousting, a horse-shoe toss and other challenges organised into a games area; a works-in-progress demonstration of the building of the girna (old traditional rubble wall dwelling); and an exhibition of old traditional musical instruments and quarry tools.

A selection of local dishes will be prepared by Ir-Razzett l-Antik while a range of Monte Kristo wines and other beverages will be served by MK Leisure.

The stage programme starts at 8 p.m. with two folk dance shows. A troupe of eight performers from the Paul Curmi Dancers will interpret one social aspect of folk, portrayed by the peasant customs and costumes that come to life in choreography. On the other hand, the Ladies of Mdina depict the pastimes of the nobility, as will be interpreted by eight members of the Cameo Folk Dancers in period costumes and elegant dance routines.

At 9 p.m., it's Zoo Goes Epoka, which has been specifically created and produced for Epoka by Zoo. Typical of all Zoo's well-followed productions, the audience is in for another treat when the four characters find themselves in the times of the Knights. Against such a fertile background, Zoo prepared a string of new comic situations with the guarantee of keeping the audience laughing their hearts out. True to their promise, Zoo Goes Epoka was an instant hit with those present when performed for the first time last Friday during the festival.

The admission fee for Epoka is Lm1.50 for adults and free for children under 10. The ticket includes entrance to all shows happening during the Valletta Waterfront Epoka festival except for Zoo goes Epoka.

Admission tickets for the 800-seating arrangement for Zoo goes Epoka is Lm4.50, giving access to all areas of Epoka activities. Tickets are available by phoning 7938-0488 or from ticket booths during the festival.

Throughout the festival, all outlets along the Valletta Waterfront will remain open to the public offering late night shopping as well as the opportunity to enjoy a meal or drink at one of the outlets along the water's edge.

For more information visit www.epokafestival.com.

New Fashion Queen contest

The 19 finalists contesting the 43rd Miss Malta title, during a pageant organised annually by GM Productions, will participate in a new contest - the Fashion Queen pageant.

The Fashion Queen contest will be held at the Ghajnsielem Football Club on Saturday. The contest is being organised with the help of Ghajnsielem mayor Frans Cauchi and the Ghajnsielem Football Club committee.

The 19 finalists, who will be greeted by Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono in Mgarr, will participate together with popular singers and dancers. Another highlight of the show will be the crowning of the new Miss Gozo. The contestants of the Miss Malta title will then spend a day touring Gozo.

GM Productions will also be presenting a wheelchair to a Gozitan association.

For your diary

The Society for Investigating the Credibility of Extraordinary Claims (SICEC) is showing Religious Relics on Thursday at the Youth Travel Circle at 227, Merchants Street, Valletta, at 7 p.m. Vanni Pulè will discuss the presentation.

A Day's Outing in aid of the Little Sisters of the Poor will be held at the Radisson SAS Golden Sands Hotel, Ghajn Tuffieha on Wednesday, September 6. For bookings and information phone Blanche Martin on 2133-0387.

Richmond Foundation is organising a self-help group meeting at the Despott Hall, Education Department, Floriana, on September 6 at 5.30 p.m.

Every month self-help group meetings are heed for those who are experiencing mental health difficulties. The aim is for these people to support and encourage each other on their road to recovery.

For further information contact the Richmond Foundation on 2148-2336 or 2144-0324 or send an e-mail to info@richmond.org.mt.

A grand fund-raising barbecue is being organised in aid of Dar Merhba Bik in Balzan and the Good Shepherd Sisters' Mission in El Obeid, Sudan, at the Imperial Hotel, Sliema, on September 7 at 7 p.m. Kurt the Magician and young singer Jessica Muscat will entertain the guests. For bookings phone 2144-0035 or 2157-8730.

The Mount Carmel Band Club of Gzira is organising a day's outing to Gozo on September 8. Transport will leave the club at 7.15 a.m. The group will catch the 8.15 ferry and will visit Victoria, Ta' Pinu Sanctuary and Xaghra, and will have lunch in Xlendi. The group will return with the 8.15 p.m. ferry. Tickets are Lm7 for adults and Lm4 for children.

Appreciation - Rev. Professor Edward Fenech, OSA, BA (Hons), MA, Ph.D. (Leeds)

Professor Mario Vassallo, of Siggiewi, writes:

REV. PROFESSOR EDWARD FENECH is no longer readily available to us all in the Faculty of Arts whenever we need to consult him on any aspect of the University regulations or linguistic aspects of either Maltese or Arabic.

He left us so suddenly, and even though he was only attending the University occasionally, since he was beyond retiring age, his presence was always welcome; his absence is sorely missed by all of us who benefited from him one way or another.

Professor Fenech was so very committed to the faculty. He gave a lot of time and energy, but unfortunately may not have got so much in return. It is an open secret that he was not always appreciated for his erudition and expertise. His pioneering work in Maltese and Arabic linguistics is testimony to his foresight that went beyond the obvious remit of the Faculty of Arts.

His two-year study period and pastoral experience in Tunisia brought him in close contact with Arab culture and for this reason his insights and knowledge regarding Arabs and Islam were based also on first-hand experience and not only books. He was the person who gave a tremendous push to the study of Arabic and was the Head of the Department of Arabic for a number of years. He was convinced that knowledge of Arabic was not merely an academic exercise, but an economic need.

As a priest, he was one of the few truly dedicated men at the service of God. Fr Fenech will always be remembered as one who was gifted with humility, humanity and honesty, traits not so very often found in colleagues nowadays. He was always ready to bend backwards to offer a helping hand, but never to prejudice others by extending help in an unwarranted way.

In his role and capacity as main guardian and interpreter of the regulations governing our courses at the Faculty of Arts, Professor Fenech was assiduously fair and just, though, at times he was criticised for being slightly bountiful in his attempt to earnestly understand the difficult circumstances in which students at times found themselves.

It is indeed sad that the Faculty of Arts has lost one of its great, humble and long-serving, if unsung heroes. Dwardu, as we fondly used to call him, has now left us to meet the Risen Lord, whom he served until the very end and who will certainly recognise and reward him much more than we, ordinary and petty mortals ever did during his life.

Appreciation - Fr Louis Bezzina

Mr Kevin Sciberras, of Qala, writes:

I have always addressed Fr Louis as Gig: he never sought formalities. I feel so comfortable addressing him as I have been doing these 20 years and I am sure that he would not be offended in spite of the many who are reading this appreciation.

The scene at his funeral reminded me of a similar one 30 years ago. He too could be seen lying in front of his bishop, Mgr Nikol Cauchi, in the Cathedral in Victoria. That day, just after his consecration to the priesthood he stated a most wonderful prayer and said "May the Lord who initiated this beneficial mission see it materialise up till the end."

We human beings can never fully understand why such a mission should ever reach such a premature end. Moreover, our creed, and the fine example set by Fr Louis, encourages us to keep the faith and never be disheartened, as the Lord in His infinite love and charity has laid down a roadmap for each and every one of us; a destiny which is so many times mysterious in our eyes, but so wonderful in the eyes of the Creator.

Now, together with Bishop Mario Grech, we have gathered to witness the fulfilment of an endeavour commenced at a celebration with Bishop Cauchi on August 12, 30 years ago.

The Eternal Priest has seen Fr Louis through the sowing and the harvest, and is now enjoying the fruit at his altar: the venue he always encouraged us to arrive at. I promise him that this heritage will not perish, neither from our memory, nor from our hearts. Nor from our lives.

The long speeches in Fr Louis' honour were never what he sought. Three characteristics of Fr Louis which will remain impressed in the minds of those who have found solace in the fine examples he set, and which we shall do our best to imitate, are:

First, his endless and unconditional love and respect towards Christ's Church and her Shepherds; a love which he gave witness to in his sermons and writings, his thoughts as he transmitted them to us: the Church is Christ's body on earth and it will always be present up to the end of time in spite of the human weaknesses of its members.

Humility is the second virtue, so strong in his natural simplicity with his brethren, yet so firm in his ambition to be nothing more than one of us. He had all the requisites to aspire for titles and ranks, but earthly decorations would have roped him to the ground and he wouldn't have been light enough to soar so high when carrying out the tasks of his vocation.

Finally, we shall always remember, treasure and follow his extraordinary love for the Holy Eucharist and Mary, our Mother. Our weekly meetings at Santa Marta Ta' l-Ghonq presented us with an opportunity to relieve ourselves in the presence of the Holy Eucharist: he thought us how to submit ourselves into the Lord's arms.

We gathered as brethren bringing our baggage of experiences with us: some heavy and painful, others light, but he always encouraged us to place everything at the Lord's feet. Thus, following the experience at the wedding feast at Cana, we ask Mary our Mother to intervene and on our behalf, ask her Son to transform water into wine and our sufferings into hope and courage.

I remember, some years back when I was watching St George's statue with Fr Louis as it was being carried out of the church just before the procession, the statue of the saint he was so devoted to and whose life was so dear to him. We were in his favourite vantage point next to the equestrian statue of the saint known as "Taz-Ziemel". It was during this wonderful and unique spectacle to the music of the majestic hymn dedicated to the saint and popularly known as "l-Innu l-Kbir" that Fr Louis turned to me and exclaimed, "Who knows if this would be the same at Heaven's gate?"

Fr Louis has now satisfied his curiosity. We have not assisted him to this scene, but we are certain that he is witnessing one which is more beautiful than anything our eyes can ever behold.

I thank Fr Louis... till the day we meet again.