New archbishop's first school visit

January 18 was not an ordinary day for Antonio Bosio School Secondary School, Gzira.

Archbishop-elect Mgr Paul Cremona visited the school and received a warm welcome from the school population.

A school drama team staged The Washing of the Feet by Jesus in a symbolic show of what was to be expected of Mgr Cremona. A representative of the student body also read out a speech, after which offerings were given to His Grace.

These consisted of homework samples, statements from the students telling Mgr Cremona what they expected from the Church, and a beautiful hamper of fruits, gathered by the students themselves.

Finally, Mr Cremona was presented with a specially made kitchen apron commemorating his first visit to the school. The students also promised him their prayers and support. Mgr Cremona in turn reciprocated by saying that he would be very close to the young and asked them to "open their doors wide open for Christ", quoting the late Pope John Paul II.

Mgr Cremona promised the students that he would try to be the best of himself with the help of God in such a great task that he inherited. Before leaving he made sure he met every single student personally, thus leaving an unforgettable impression.