Appreciations

Mgr Lawrence Gatt writes:

This is how we knew them - one by his surname and the other by his Christian name. In the span of a week, Malta is two priests the poorer.

When, in the future, a monument is built for the Unknown Priest the names of both Fr Stanley Tomlin, MSSP, and Fr William Għaxaq, OFM Cap, will certainly be carved on it.

So many of us will miss their counselling, their spiritual direction, their rich pastoral contribution - especially in the fields of the spoken and written word.

Fr Tomlin was a close collaborator of the first Superior General of the Missionary Society of St Paul, Fr Michael Callus, who he succeeded at the helm of the society. He was for many years the animator and outstanding representative of the growing society.

Under his guidance it spread in South America, Australia, Pakistan and the Philippines. I remember him dreaming of setting foot in Indonesia in the early 1970s. He saw the society take Pontifical status.

Fr William was a well-known teacher and preacher. He taught so much when he preached. He was a voracious reader and a prolific writer. For some time he was also a parish priest. He will be particularly missed for his talks - well-prepared, erudite, clear and convincing.

The entire Maltese Church has lost two outstanding priests and two great benefactors of society. I think they are two shining examples of religious life.

An intimate conviction tells me vocations to the religious life will flourish even just at the example of two such faithful and revered priests.

Mark Edwards

Attard & Co. Foodstuffs Ltd writes:

The Peter Lehmann wine-tasting dinner, organised by Attard and Co. Foodstuffs Ltd at The Arches restaurant on April 23, happened to be the last event where executive chef Mark Edwards shared some of his delicious meals with his guests.

A few days later, the local food scene lost one of its great chefs in a fatal road accident.

Mr Edwards started as a dishwasher at The Arches when he was younger but his enthusiasm for food and cooking led him to become one of the most recognisable chefs on the island. He will be remembered by everyone who ever tasted his wonderful cuisine.

Mr Edwards, an amazing husband and father, was a generous and hardworking person and has been an inspiration to his family, colleagues and friends.

Needless to say, he leaves a beautiful legacy behind.

We convey our sincere condolences to Mr Edwards' family.