St George Parish Church in Qormi was packed this afternoon for the funeral of George Abela, the President's father.

Mr Abela, 84, passed away on Monday at Mater Dei Hospital.

His widow Lucarda, led the congregation, which included the President and his family and Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, who attended his own father's funeral on Monday.

Also present were new Chief Justice Silvio Camilleri, Opposition Leader Joseph Muscat, MPs and representatives of constituted bodies, as well as many people from Qormi who knew Mr Abela well.

Mr Abela was praised for his religious beliefs, his frequent presence in the church and for his role as a family man and worker.

Parish Priest Anton Cassar led the concelebration.

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