Malta marks independence

Tens of people, the majority of them tourists, crowded St John's Square yesterday morning to watch the country's dignitaries enter the Co-Cathedral for the annual Independence Day Thanksgiving Mass.

The Armed Forces of Malta Guard of Honour, wearing their sparkling white uniforms, lined the street in front of the Co-Cathedral.

A round of applause broke out as President Eddie Fenech Adami walked into St John's Square, accompanied by his wife and the AFM commander, Brigadier Carmel Vassallo. Silence fell over the square when the AFM band played the national anthem, broken only by the clicks of cameras and clacking of horses' hooves as the cavalry made its way through Republic Street.

Inside the Co-Cathedral the overpowering smell of incense wafted in the air as the choir, followed by the celebrants, walked down the aisle. Tourists crowded the church and the Cathedral's custodians tried to stop them from taking photos during Mass. Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, a number of ministers and MPs and former presidents were present.

In his homily Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mercieca said the future of Christian morality and belief did not look rosy. "When God is pushed to the side, man's dignity is undermined and the country's moral backbone and honour is weakened," he said.

Mgr Mercieca celebrated Mass in the absence of Archbishop Paul Cremona, who is currently at the Vatican at a meeting for new bishops.

He highlighted the importance of retaining the traditional concept of family.

"God wanted, and ordered, marriage to be between one man and one woman until death. However, it is no longer difficult to find people who speak in favour of divorce or other forms of marriage. It seems that people are getting used to cohabitation and not even the word 'abortion' shocks us anymore."

He said scientific breakthroughs in biotechnology highlight the need to defend human life at all stages. Turning to politicians, Mgr Mercieca said there was an urgent need of clear political decisions in favour of the family, children, youths, the elderly and emarginated people.

"Everybody wants to see strong morality, transparency and responsibility in the exercise of power," he said.

Mgr Mercieca raised the concern that in the name of freedom many were starting to think that man could do as he wanted, believe what he wanted and do what is best and most convenient for him.

He mentioned freedom of conscience, which means that nobody should be bound to believe against his will. However, it did not mean that man could behave in any way he wanted.

Politicians, Mgr Mercieca continued, also needed to give their contribution. They faced difficult challenges and crucial responsibilities as social structures went through big changes pushed by new economic forces.

After Mass the President and the Prime Minister laid wreaths at the foot of the independence monument in Floriana.