Cuba missionary's thanks to contributors, helpers

After a period of two months in Malta, I am about to return to Cuba in order to continue the missionary work I have been doing there for several years.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who supported and helped me in this ministry.

Many were those who showed a great interest and were eager to learn more about Cuba, the pastoral work being done by the Church, and the desired improve-ment in relationship between Church and State. This interest has filled my heart with joy and encouragement.

A special thanks goes to all those who financially supported the planned projects, including the building of a new church in the parish of Santa Ana with a capacity for 600 persons with an adjacent pastoral centre, a project which is estimated to cost €200,000. Other projects include the distribution of food, clothes and medicine to the poor and needy, while the development of a tailoring shop helps many young women for their future life.

Many thanks go also to the Maltese Franciscan Capuchin Province, especially the Missions Office, which is always prompt to help. A word of thanks goes also to the Franciscan married couples who meet at Floriana and who during the year organise fund-raising activities for our mission in Cuba; to the parish of Marsascala which is in a twinning project with my parish at Cuba, both parishes dedicated to St Anna; the Archbishop's Curia in Malta and that of Gozo; the prayer group Christ The King at Balzan, and many others who personally contributed towards our mission. Thanks also to the various local TV and radio stations for giving me the opportunity to show and explain the good work which is being done in Cuba.

I am really impressed by the missionary spirit which is still alive in our islands. May the Lord give you peace.