I refer to the report Damaged Crucifix Restored (March 6) in which the restorer Fr Charles Vella is quoted as referring to what I stated when the incident happened, that is, that the damage was so great that the integrity and authenticity of the crucifix has been damaged almost irreparably.
In spite of what has been written, I stand by my statement that once an artifact is damaged in this way, no project can restore its authenticity.
Having said this, I admire very much the project that has been done by Fr Vella in reconstructing the crucifix. The project adds to the long list of successful projects that have been carried out by this very enthusiastic restorer.