Appreciation - Mgr Bartholomew Bezzina

Philip Borg writes:

"The monsignor is no more!" "L-Arċipriet (the archpriest) has passed away!" This is what all Mosta people must have been uttering since Sunday evening when word of his demise spread around. The beloved pastor, the kind benefactor of people and their souls, the leader and the servant - Mgr Bartholomew Bezzina - is now risen to eternal life!

Very few pastors have achieved so much in their lifetime as Dun Bert did. He was, first and foremost, everyone's true friend, always prompt with a welcoming smile and words of comfort to all who knew him. He was consistently very fatherly to all but never patronising.

With a strong personality and a unique power of speech, he spent long years as Mosta's most beloved archpriest that past and present generations can remember. In the worst of times he was a very balanced leader, full of wisdom and judgment, always ready to serve as the unifying factor. He was and will always be remembered as the pastor who strived for the coronation of Mosta's altarpiece of the Assumption.

Mgr Bezzina chose to remain with his people even when his term of office was over. Some pastors can be true servants, irrespective of time! Dun Bert was a true case in point! Decades passed since he relinquished his high post but in everyone's heart he still remained the father figure of the whole parish ambience, activities and surroundings.

He stood by his successors, in the shadow of their limelight, thanks to his endless humility. He was there, always available to serve one and all, as need be. Dun Bert was an organised pastor, very disciplined and yet so loving. He was there in happy and sad times. A true leader that smiles vividly and also sheds genuine tears with his people! A true man for all seasons!

I feel privileged to have been close to him for decades - he was a pastor I could only admire and confide in, a true friend with whom I could comfortably share my innermost beliefs and worries. The kind monsignor was always there with his wise advice, never failing to uplift and encourage anyone to move ahead in life!

A particular fact stands out to prove the people's endless respect for him: He was the respected chaplain and cherished benefactor to both Mosta band clubs.

No doubt, Mgr Bezzina was a treasure to one and all. The Lord has now called him to our eternal homeland where just and loving people like Mgr Bezzina will acquire their hard-won reward!

Many may admire his heritage of various donations to the Rotunda and all Mosta associations. But his greatest legacy will certainly be his own life of service, irrespective of societal levels, full of dedication and respect towards one and all!

Lord, Dun Bert has been such a comfort to hundreds of families and thousands of people; may You greet him at the Golden Gates and welcome him among Your most deserving servants!