The Bishop of Gozo, Mgr Mario Grech, has described his predecessor Mgr Nikol Cauchi as a father figure and a teacher for the people of Gozo.

In brief comments this morning, Mgr Grech said that Mgr Cauchi's hospitalisation yesterday was a shock and he was urging the clergy and the people to pray for him.

He said that he had a long conversation with Mgr Cauchi last Sunday and he was still looking forward to projects which he planned to carry out.

See comments in full on video above.

Mgr Cauchi, 81, was treated at the cardiac unit of Gozo General Hospital yesterday and transferred to Mater Dei Hospital by helicopter this morning (see separate story).

His condition is critical but stable.

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