Special papal envoy for Pauline Year closure

The Apostolic Nunciature in Malta has written to the Maltese government to say that Pope Benedict XVI will be sending a special representative to the closing ceremony of the Pauline Year on June 29, 2009.

"It is the Supreme Pontiff's intention to be represented here in Malta by his own Special Envoy, and this as a sign of his predilection for this country which is one of those privileged places to have been graced by the personal presence of the Apostle of the Nations," the Nunciature wrote in its letter to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

It said it will provide the Maltese government with details on this Papal Envoy once they are received.

The Nunciature also said that simultaneously with the opening ceremony in Rome, Metropolitan Archbishop and President of the Episcopal Conference Paul Cremona will preside over a solemn service in Malta. The Pauline Year is due to begin in two weeks' time, on June 28.

Throughout the year, the Dioceses of Malta and Gozo will be holding a number of special events, including the celebration of liturgical services, Biblical and catechetical courses, lectures, spiritual exercises, ecumenical activities, pilgrimages and exhibitions, among others.