Humanists call for secular Constitution, reject Kmiec proposal

Joe Xuereb

Apr 25th 2012, 00:19

If there was enough proof tomorrow to debunk the whole creationist thing I doubt that I would understand the discussion, science being my weakest, NON-EXISTENT subject. Instead I try to make up for this by switching on the commonsense mode. I am not afraid to ask (what have I got to lose having come this far? but I've gained a (conscious)life, and that is more than good enough for me. I say this because it feels real and just.
I was saying: commonsense. Even if we never discover 100% the origin of the universe, what does it matter. The Universe will implode anyway one day - it could be next week (I doubt it) or it could be a million/billion years hence. Which begs the question - how many Vaticans will crumble/be demolished and rebuilt in the next million years. However good the restoration and the upkeep no building can last a million years.
Yes, if we never discover the cause/reason/origin of the Universe, why does their have to be a supernatural power behind the cosmos? If nothing comes from nothing (and I am not saying that is impossible) then the argument could be stretched to include a god or gods. Telling me that Alla jista' kollox(god is omnipotent) will not convince me I'm afraid. What is important is shirking away from the question and not being afraid of exploratory answers. Of course if proof of god's existence were forthcoming I would be almost overjoyed and join the queue to rejoin the masses. Of course this will not happen. A) because it cannot (something that does not exist can not materialise. And B) it cannot be proven because the whole thing is built on blind faith, which kind of validates it. With proof-positive the whole structure (religion) would lose its edge and its meaning. Its very purpose is all about its unknowability. Take away the mystique and the whole structure flounders.
Now this may sound like silliness to some/many but, although just short of proof(to me), it sounds good enough for me. But then I am talking from MY vantage point and that is difficult to grasp unless one IS in my shoes.

Please note that this is only my opinion. If found to be not to your liking for ANY reason you can always ignore. Maybe it is better to take Jesus' word for it, ie. give to Caesar what is his due. In other words, a Constitution that does not include religious pickings was good enough for him. And that could be good for all of us too.

Harry Livesey

Apr 24th 2012, 21:36

kids get more facts from computer games than any god . more watch sport than go to church. you can only brainwash the people so long before they wake up and taste the coffee. religion is a thing of the past. if god does not like it then let him do something about it.dont hold your breath

Joe Xuereb

Apr 24th 2012, 14:34

C. Briffa (illum, 24ta' April - 12:38). Ippermettili nikkwotak: 'Li naf hu li intom ghad li Alla ghalikhom ma jezistix imma xorta qed tidiskutu li dan Alla'.

Il-munita għandha żewġ faċċati. Fl-opinjoni tiegħek l-ateisti ma jistgħux jagħtu prova li Alla ma jeżistix. In tista' tagħti prova li Alla jeżisti?

L-ateist jitkellem fuq Alla għax Alla hu suġġett enormi li jaffettwa lil kulħadd. Id-differenza bejn min ma jemminx(f'Alla) u min jemmen hi li l-ateist ifassal ħajtu mingħajr l-indħil t'Alla (għax ma jeżistix) u l-implikazzjoni ta' dan. Ħajja aktar reali għax mingħajr appoġġ, ħajja aktar matura, aktar responsabbli, ħajja mingħajr twehid ta' premji għal atti tajbin, u ħajja eterna(l-arroganza li wieħed irid jgħix għal dejjem). Mill-banda l-oħra, min jemmen - pero' dan ukoll mingħajr provi - ifassal ħajtu billi jgħidulu li jekk jagħmel sagrifiċċji biżżejjed jirbaħ l-eternita' fis-Sema. Il-Ħażen, li hu l-Infern hawn fuq l-art, dan nafuh. It-tajjeb MINGĦAJR PREMJU u għalhekk ta' aktar valur, hu l-Ġenna fl-art. Dawn huma tnejn fil-qasam attwali tal-konoxxenza tal-bniedem. Għax huma veri, attwali. Kemm l-Infern kif ukoll il-Ġenna huma kunċett, idejat ta' barra din id-dinja u għalhekk tagħhom m'hemmx provi barra dak li jġħidulna. Hawn min dan jemmnu, u hawn min juża l-moħħ li taħ Alla, u jistaqsi, jistaqsi, dejjem jgħix bied ifittex il-verita' u dan jinkludi wkoll discorsi fuq l-eżistenza jew le ta' dak li x'uħud jgħidulu l-ħallieq ta' kollox.

Taf kemm hi diffiċli l-ħajja ta' ateist, C.!! U mank tieħu premju fl-aħħar mill-aħħar. Imma, xi trid tagħmel? ġaladarba ġejna fid-dinja. Nagħmlu milli nistgħu biex inkampaw, hux?!

Xortih tajba min isib il-wens u l-appoġġ fi ħdan il-qassis. L-ateist huwa priv minn dan il-lussu. L-ateist għażel li joqgħod bil-wieqfa fuq saqajh mingħajr bastun.

In the modern age, Religion is an anachronism and should not be part of any Constitution anywhere. It has been the cause of too much strice, and continues to, and needs to be practised in private if at all. I see no problem in this. Why cannot a believer be happy with this deal?

Raphael Vassallo

Apr 24th 2012, 14:16

'Can this association give us proof that God does not exist??'

No proof is necessary ,or even relevant to the issue at hand. What we are discussing here is not whether God exists, but whether God should feature in the constitution. It is clear even from preceding comments that there are many out there who believe in God, but who also recognise the need for a clear separation between Church and state. These people do not want to see any such reference in the Constitution either.

Joe Xuereb

Apr 24th 2012, 13:16

In Time Magazine of a couple of weeks back I believe, the main article was about a re-interpretation of Heaven (and Hell). Basically it said that a decent life here on Earth is Heaven.
And an indecent life - calumny, lies, greed, absence of any values, and so on onto the more serious transgressions like murder, misrule, embezzlements, robberies (especially armed), and the knock-on effect of the person who commits these transgressions: I could go on for pages and pages - this life would be Hell. It is easy to understand.

To any fool who still maintains that atheism is the freedom to misbehave with impunity is wrong.
A true atheist, even one with moderate intelligence, will bother to gain insights into sinning, its causes, and its aftermaths. So sins no more.

The believer, on the other hand, is not allowed to gain any true insights as that would empower him too much to the detriment of the Church. So he is told he will always be forgiven. And so he sins again and again and again. And every time he is forgiven. Nice one!!

A Mr. Giov. DeMartino topped it all up when he said that if he has to be go through life making sacrifices - I wonder what he sees as sacrifices? - then he expects a reward, ie. Heaven. He does not know, or is not allowed to know, that what he sees as sacrifices are not sacrifices at all.
With a little bit of knowledge, with a little bit of tweaking, he could discover that what he sees as a sacrifice is no such thing at all. So, a lot of 'non'-sacrifices for nothing. There! Problem solved. And one can live a decent life with no sacrifice at all because they are not worth the bother. Ah! the beauty of reason as opposed to the damnation that is rationalisation!


And here's one I made earlier.

Many believers here are only too quick to accuse atheists, humanists - as far as I am concerned the first makes the second redundant but only a true atheist, and all the implications of this, will understand this. This is why people should try atheism but this comes with a warning; atheism, once tried and experienced in its horrific wonder because it feels real.....once tried, one can not go back to a comfy but ultimately vacuous existence.
Yes, atheists are accused of allsorts - banning the crucifix, wanting people to change direction, etc. Nonsense! But one thing I have noticed. Believers seem to feel threatened by non-believers hence the paranoia, anger, accusations of things imagined. Non-believers, on the other hand, do not feel threatened by believers. I wonder why?!
I find it interesting, and heartening, that the matter has attracted such a large number of comments.
That accolade is usually reserved for homosexuals and homosexuality. Things are looking up.
Another crumpet, vicar?!

John Azzopoardi

Apr 24th 2012, 12:35

Well, how Malta has changed. WE all see the consequenses of what is happening in many EU countries. MOney has become the new God and is now in the forefront of the destruction of western socieities and idealism.

Sebastian Hawks

Apr 24th 2012, 10:20

What should have been discussed is the removal of religion from the classrooms of state schools.
Belief in a creator should be a private matter and if parents wish their children to learn any particular faith, the time to do that is after school hours.
Religion teachers salaries are paid not just from the taxes of catholic practicing parents but also from the taxes of atheists, agnostics and believers of other faiths while no substitute subject is offered.

W Cassar

Apr 24th 2012, 09:25

Whatever is said the state and religion are two separate things and should always be so. When that line is cross it creates problems.

C Briffa

Apr 24th 2012, 09:24

Can this association give us proof that God does not exist??
Since I never met a humanist member of this association so I declare that they do not exist!!!
WE shall continue to pray for these people which are blinder than those people without eyesight.
Once a person went to his barber to get his beard trimmed, the barber claimed that God doesn't exist. His client paid the barber and went out but as soon he went out of his shop he saw a scruffy man with a long filthy beard. The client went in the barber's shop again and told the barber "barbers don’t exist". The barber told his client why are you saying so I just trimmed your beard. The client told the barber look out of the window that man has a long and filthy beard so barbers don’t exist. The barber replied it’s just because he never came to me. His client told him it’s the same with God, you never went to him!!!

Kenneth Cassar

Apr 24th 2012, 09:19

@ David Pace:

"Any changes to the constitution will need the strong backing of the majority. Are we still for democracy? Are we ready to accept the will of the majority even if it doesn't suit our fancy?"

That's a very simplistic view on democracy. Do you mean to say that if the PN are elected they have the right to insert in the constitution that Malta is a Nationalist country, or alternatively, if the PL are elected, that Malta is a Labour country?

Ridiculous.

David Pace

Apr 24th 2012, 09:06

Any changes to the constitution will need the strong backing of the majority. Are we still for democracy? Are we ready to accept the will of the majority even if it doesn't suit our fancy?

Colin Apap

Apr 24th 2012, 09:03

Because I am a humanist I recognize my reality: I am too small to understand everything and prove everything. There are many things I do not even know they exist and many others I cannot prove their existence. I have no scientific proof of many realities around me. Yet there are some truths that I hold very dear and are very important in my life. One of these beliefs is that I am

“a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
I have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to me,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.”

I cannot scientifically prove this but feel it deep down inside of me; I did not come from thin air or a Big Bang.

Evidence of this is persuasive but not overwhelming. It can neither be proved nor disproved scientifically. Yet I know it is true. I have experienced in my own life that this is true. In an incredulous world only an experience of Love can make sense. Only those, who at least once, experienced what true genuine love means that they can ‘prove’ Love.

I believe because somehow I have met Him. When I live my belief I feel vindicated by the changes I see in myself and the world around me. As is the humanist way, conviction grows with experience.

Kenneth Cassar

Apr 24th 2012, 08:41

@ Franco Farrugia:

The question is: Why should a secular constitution mention any Creator?

Jay Oatmon

Apr 24th 2012, 08:40

Although not directly relevant to Malta - in the UK etc., more people regularly go to football at the weekends than 'go to church.'

So football is the biggest regularly attended 'religion' in many European countries today - and religion is less popular.

This indicates in today's world religion is becoming less popular with ordinary people - and so it should not be part of any constitution.

Hossam Helwani

Apr 24th 2012, 08:23

@ Giov Demartino

while I enjoy reading your very interesting comments, I find that your analogy referring to heaven and hell a bit distastefull.

We do not live a good life because the heaven carrot is dangling in front of our noses! We do not abstain from bad because of punishment!

There is a much wider sense for a person to perceive good and bad from the very life we lead. There is such a thing as natural law. We do not steal because God threatens with hell! We do not steal because if I disrespect the right of my brother to own , automatically I am approving that others can steal me.

There was order and Man has disturbed it through his egoism. There needs to be a form of morality, Every nation does, unfortunately the problem lies within the very teachings of religions who teach of a God seated on a throne and expecting us all to adore him. God does not need anyones adoration nor anyones praise. But God who happens to be eternally and infinitly Good transmits his Good through us in our good deeds. I believe also that evil exists and transmits itself through willing recipients who allow themselves to be used as such.

Unfortunately humans need more teaching and more truth than laws. Just read St Pauls letter,: where there is law there is sin.

Humans need guidance and teaching, we all need example and direction. If a constitution is based on humanity in itself is already a huge leap towards good, but judging by todays moral standards and ways of life , people have suddenly realised we have failed miserably.

Harsh punishments wont cure anything, knowledge cures, prevention saves. A constitution should be based on proper moral values. Though shall not kill , steal , lie, etc etc should not belong only to a Christian Constitution, but to all constitutions.

Joseph Brincat

Apr 24th 2012, 08:07

I HAVE TO GET IT OFF MY CHEST !!!!!
There are believers and not, but there are a lot of RELIGIONS in this WORLD
that they believe in their GOD, and they ALL try there best to convince US that
there religion is the best,. well there is nothing wrong with that,as long as they
stay OUT off our constitution for it is ANTI- DEMOCRATIC for all
BELIEVERS AND NOT >>> SO HELP US GOD !!!!

Franco Farrugia

Apr 24th 2012, 08:02

Why shouldn't the Constitution, the highest law of the land, not give recognition, or praise, to the Creator of Heaven and Earth? The concept of God is above any religion or faith!

And if this does not meet the satisfaction of a portion of society, which I believe to be small - but never mind about that - then, how about that portion of society that does not believe in law and order? Shall we, then, have a 'non-constitution' in order to appease them?

Or, how about appeasing that portion of society that does not believe in democracy (I believe there are many!)? Will the Constitution, then, not have any regard to the spirit of democracy?

And what if, hypothetically, the Constitution strengthens the power of the President of the Republic and there's a good portion of people who do not believe in these powers? What, then?

There must be a demarcation line and I feel that mentioning the Creator as the beginning and end of it all, the alpha and omega, will not hurt those people who in their infinite and 'modern' (note the inverted commas!) wisdom (sic), seek to obliterate the idea of God from society. It will not be such a big insult to them to mention the Creator, will it?

And let us do away with this false concept of removing the reference to the Creator as in some way hindering us from having a 'secular Constitution'. What constitutes a 'secular Constitution'? THAT should be the question.

Go tell the Americans that they don't have a 'secular Constitution', just because there is a reference to God on their money bills? Pah!

All this is a question of commonsense - which is no longer common, even amongst those pretending to be the Maltese representatives of humanism!

Franco Farrugia

Apr 24th 2012, 07:51

Kemm qed insiru QZIEZ, ghandek tghid! Wisq, qedin inkabbruha rasna, ahna l-Maltin!

M Grima

Apr 24th 2012, 07:37

Why does'nt Mr. Kmiec, who was fired by the Obama administration for wasting his time as an ambassador, try his luck in changing the US constitution before he tries to meddle in ours. I think that what he is proposing infringes the notion that the Maltese constitution should embrace the interests of ALL the Maltese citizens and not just a chunk of it.

Raymond Sacco

Apr 24th 2012, 07:32

Forget about whether god exists, forget about the thousands of different religions, forget about the big bang. We are talking about a new constitution for our country here and a new constitution (unlike the present one) should respect EVERY single Maltese citizen! Therefore there should be no mention what so ever of any religion or god, but just concentrate on Maltese citizens' civil rights! It's only logic, yet it is so hard for certain people to understand!!!!!!

Kenneth Cassar

Apr 24th 2012, 06:50

@ Giov DeMartino:

"Ghax jekk ma tkunx temmen f'Alla xi jzommok li tisraq, toqtol, timmalafama....kif fil-fatt qed jigri".

What keeps atheists from stealing, killing and slandering people? How about common decency and true moral values where a good thing is done because it is good, and not out of fear of punishment?

On the otherhand, it seems that belief in God is not stopping you from slandering atheists, secularists and humanists. Oh well, if it pleases your God to slander people, good luck with obtaining your ticket to heaven.

Jonathan Camilleri

Apr 24th 2012, 06:33

EU Fundamental Rights allow, that any individual is free to choose their own religion, amongst other human rights, and, the Constitution of Malta unfortunately - and legitimately - overrides this principle by accepting that the official religion of the Republic of Malta, is the Roman Catholic religion. Indeed, this can exert influence on the decisions taken by authority, although the influence might be convenient for the Archdiocese of Malta because it allows them to put pressure based on this very principle. It is also widely known that Dr. Gonzi, the political leader and prime minister of Malta, is heavily influenced by Roman Catholicism, and, this has at times created indecisiveness, and, hesitation, resulting in increased time (and cost) to take progressive decisions. The duration of the over-hyped divorce debate is just an example.

Joe Xuereb

Apr 24th 2012, 01:26

@Giov DeMartino (23rd April 17:54). Please allow me to quote your good self: ....Thanks for confirming that human nature, being what it is, needs some sort of deterrent to keep us on the right track. I do hope that there is hell and there is heaven, because otherwise what sense does it make to make so many sacrifices to live s good life? .

What a very interesting comment from Mr. DeMartino. I am forever grateful to him for telling me all I needed to know.

Alex Ellul

Apr 24th 2012, 00:39

President Obama booted out Douglas Kmiec because the latter was too much in religion. So he was called back to the US of A and was added to the ever increasing list of unemployed under Obama's dynasty.

This reminds me of the time when Lech Walesa was thrown out of the Gdansk shipyard by the atheist communist regime of general Jaruselski, you know, the one who ordered the murder of Polish priests and applied martial law and ruled with a tyrannical despotic iron hand? Yes, that was the one. He made Lech Walensa unemployed, chucked him out of the shipyard where Walesa had a good name among the workers. So what did Walesa do? Having a lot of spare time, being unemployed, he created Solidarnosc (membership=9 million) and toppled the atheistic communist regime in Poland, a revolution that spread to the four corners of eastern europe, practically felling the evil communist empire in one bloodless fell swoop.

Obama booted out Kmiec because he is a practising Catholic and now Kmiec has a lot of time on his hands and I'm sure he is using this available time to show Mr. Obama what a good christian can do.

Joe Xuereb

Apr 24th 2012, 00:30

Many believers here are only too quick to accuse atheists, humanists - as far as I am concerned the first makes the second redundant but only a true atheist, and all the implications of this, will understand this. This is why people should try atheism but this comes with a warning; atheism, once tried and experienced in its horrific wonder because it feels real.....once tried, one can not go back to a comfy but ultimately vacuous existence.
Yes, atheists are accused of all sorts - banning the crucifix, wanting people to change direction, etc. Nonsense! But one thing I have noticed. Believers seem to feel threatened by non-believers hence the paranoia, anger, accusations of things imagined. Non-believers, on the other hand, do not feel threatened by believers. I wonder why?!

I find it interesting, and heartening, that the matter has attracted such a large traffic of comments.
That accolade is usually reserved for homosexuals and homosexuality. Things are looking up.

DR EMMANUEL BEZZINA,MA,MAG.JUR.[EU Law],LL.D.,

Apr 23rd 2012, 23:38

There should be total separation between STATE and any form of Religion or Religious Orientation. Mr KMIEC kindly do not interfere in our local affairs...............we have a mind of our own!! Put your own house in order first and foremost. So long...................

Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti

Apr 23rd 2012, 23:00

No wonder the US government got rid of him. I imagine Malta presents him with a great opportunity to peddle his nonsense. As if there is not enough emphasis on God in little Malta! The Constitution should belong to everyone and not only to theists. It should never enshrine the dreams of one group within the community - the theists.

Efrehem Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 21:37

Christ did not try to impose his beliefs on anyone, leaving people to decide which paths to follow; So why should a State impose religious dogmas on its people 2000 years later? It is quite ironic that while Malta promotes Freedom of Religion and Belief in the international arena, it tries to depict the population as 100% branded Christians while leaving other beliefs in limbo. While the efforts of the President of Malta to launch a debate on the Constitution are laudable, I fairly believe that it is time to adjust it in view of reality and make it a law suitable for a modern country of the 21st century.

A constitution comprises a set of established precedents and fundamental freedoms that should have the society at its centre and not moral and religious codes – otherwise we would be one step away from introducing a Christian version of Sharia law. If Malta claims to be a secular State, it is time to prove it on paper and produce a rights-based approach Constitution. A previous attempt to introduce a reference to God in the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe in 2004 already failed, and such an attempt should not be repeated at national level.

Martin Schranz

Apr 23rd 2012, 21:16

The comments below betray some ignorance on what atheism means.
First of all , secular humanists are not true atheists, they are simply a religious group with no God. True atheists have no respect for humanism or any spiritual groups.
Secondly true atheists would agree that linking a national Constitution with a particular religious belief makes that nation stronger. This is most obvious in times of crisis, for example in countries at war or recovering from a national disaster , where religious belief helps overcome adversity.
True atheists would admit that while the concept of religious or secular humanism is based on fantasy, a society without religious or spiritual ties could have devastating consequences for that society, and may even lead to a breakdown of law and order.
While all beliefs, including secular humanism , are essentially delusions, they remain essential for a society to remain intact.
In other words, ignorance is bliss.

M. Mifsud

Apr 23rd 2012, 20:31

@ Giov Demartino

Ghal darba Sur DeMartiono qed titkellem jew ahjar tikkumenta bis-sens. Din id-darba nistqar li naqbel mieghek mija fil-mija. Prosit.

M. Mifsud

Apr 23rd 2012, 20:25

@ Giov Demartino

Ghal darba Sur DeMartiono qed titkellem jew ahjar tikkumenta bis-sens. Din id-darba nistqar li naqbel mieghek mija fil-mija. Prosit.

Gerry Cowie

Apr 23rd 2012, 20:20

How many members does the Malta Humanist Association boast as being fully paid up and committed members?

Humanists seem to want to eject the God of the majority of Maltese people from His own creation. What is wrong with Christian principles? They are all about love and indeed one would expect humanists to be pro humanity, whatever their beliefs!

Roger Tirazona may like to take a look at the following quote by confirmed humanist, Ramon Casha below and repeat to me his totally uncalled for assertion that religious people "vilify humanism". Ramon Casha says, and I quote:-

"The more people realise there is no god, the happier they become. Let's take a look at some of the troubles afflicting the world shall we? Islamic terrorism - religious. Preventing science education - religious. Prohibiting women from choosing whether to have children - religious. People who believe in God tend to treat their fellow human beings with less dignity."

Roger seems equally determined to deny the existence of God, as is his right. He does not seem to appreciate however that the world is made up of two forces - good and evil. It is up to man to resist the evil and do good. Therefore to deny the existence of God just because of the existence of evil as well as good is rather shallow!

As you can see from the above Ramon Casha seems to vilify religion and use blanket statements to try to suggest that God does not exist. He is in a tiny majority and so he and his cohorts shall remain!

For those who feel that the constitution should represent the "growing number of people" (where are the figures?) it is amazing how these people want democracy and the decision of the majority to count for some things but not for others!

Stephen Spiteri

Apr 23rd 2012, 20:19

This ex ambassador has really been a success. He did not even last his term cos he was recalled, and our leaders had to call HIM to deliver a speech. Had he done a quarter of the work his predecessor had done, he'd have cut a nice figure. He came here as an ambassador not as another missionary. I mean we do missionary work abroad, including our president, not get missionaries preaching here.......

Peter Shaw

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:59

Please include also Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy in the constitution!!

Cornelius Murphy

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:51

What Malta needs is greater separation of church and state, and not interference from closed-minded Americans like Mr. Kmiec, who think they hold the key to some absolute truth. We have enough closed minded people of our own to deal with, thank you very much.

The USA was founded by people who were running away from religious persecution in Europe at the time, and for this reason, the Founding Fathers envisioned it as a secular country. Now, it is infested by religious bigots who want to impose their backward and narrow-minded views on everyone else, even outside their borders.

Joseph Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:42

@Ethelbert Schembri
Sorry but you did not understand my message. If I follow God's law and commands then there is no need to be protected by human laws. This can apply to you and to the rest of every being.

Joseph Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:36

@Ramon Casha
The world is being afflicted for no other reason then this.
Incredible truth has remained hidden—held back—from all humanity for 2,000 years. A deceived world has been kept from knowing the vital missing dimension to resolving mankind’s problems. Scientists, theologians, educators and philosophers have remained ignorant of the truth of why man exists. And yet, this incredible knowledge—has always been available. But most have not known where to look. Christ came as a newscaster revealing future events—explaining in advance good news for all mankind. This is the astounding story of the true gospel that He brought—and how it involves you!
But unfortunately men only look for wealth and money and does not care about the marvelous things awaiting him.

Alex Buds

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:35

The Kmiec guy should get the message after being fired that we have had enough of his religious zealotry...

Roger Tirazona

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:34

Thus spoke DeMartino: "Ghax jekk ma tkunx temmen f'Alla xi jzommok li tisraq, toqtol, timmalafama....kif fil-fatt qed jigri. Sirna moderni!"

Actually the slander is coming from you... are you implying that theft, murder and slander is being done by unbelievers?

c p agius

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:34

constitution that embraces only abrahamic religions??....Mr.Kmiec, aren't atheists and all those who believe in polytheistic religions Maltese too? Why would you come up with an amendment that excludes a minority, no matter how small it is ,from the spirit of the constitution?......

Luke Lanzon

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:28

Saying that Malta is 99% catholic is a joke, officially I'm catholic you know baptised, holy communion and confirmation and all that stuff but still atheist. Last year we had the famous divorce referendum and 52%-53% (can't remember official number) of the percentage that came out to vote, voted in favour of it and since god doesn't like divorce they can't be catholic can they?

Etienne Zammit Lupi

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:28

Nothing comes from nothing... Not even the Big Bang! Interestering two minute clip:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO_FRjXXgFg

Louis Cutajar

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:22

A heathen philosopher once asked a Christian, 'Where is God'? The Christian answered, 'Let me first ask you, Where is He not?' Aaron Arrowsmith

Ethelbert Schembri

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:16

The American founding fathers made whatever is possible so that the American constitution is free from such thing because they wanted the new born country to be free from any dogma but in the same time let everyone practice whatever religion they wished with the constitution defending that right !!
So please if you want such things go to your country and try to change your constitution and leave us be free from dogmas that divide people not unite them !!

Jimmy Magro

Apr 23rd 2012, 19:09

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

The above is the first amendment of the US constitution that was enacted on 15 December 1791.

How come an American professor comes to Malta to propose a controversial provision in our constitution. Does this means that Dr Kmiec is rejecting the US Constitution, which until a few months ago he had an obligation to defend?

There is something very weird here. I wonder why we are being given such a free advice?

This is nothing more than foreign interference.

Joseph Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:48

For me they can change the constitution how much they want because it does not interest me.
I obey only God's law and commands and not what men command. Never

S. Azzopardi

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:46

It is very sad to note that the more people try to remove God from their daily lives, the less happy they become.

Look at all the trouble that is afflicting our world. This is because many people think in a secular way and only of their own egoistic interests. If only more people allowed for the existence of God and consequently treated their fellow human beings with a bit more dignity our World would be a far better place to live in.

Victor Pulis

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:40

I do hope that there is hell and there is heaven, because otherwise what sense does it make to make so many sacrifices to live a good life?
Giovanni de martino

Would it make sense to live a good life and make sacrifices simply so that others may lead a better life? That in itself is reward enough.
No need for the heaven carrot or the hell repellant. The satisfaction you get from good actions are reasons enough to lead a good life and make the world a better place for your fellow men.

Rocco Camilleri

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:33

As far as I know God gave liberty to everyone and does not impose anything on anybody. It's up to the individual/s whether they belief in him or not. A number says a lot of words but when they come to face the reality of a disease where the professors exclaim that they can do noting to them, they are seen praying God and put Saint pictures by their bedsides. This also resulted when the Americans had the 'Twin Towers' attack, but it would be late by then. The US ambassador is better to see his country needs than others. I presume that we have intelligent Maltese who know our needs. Everyone should be left free in his beliefs . I only ask a question, who is giving the breath, heart beat and the other well functioning things to a human body if not 'God' the Creator of all things.

Karl Consiglio

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:05

It would seize to be called "faith". Does god exist? Oh look yes its in the constitution. Ridiculous.

Joseph A Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 18:02

I prefer my constitution to be the highest authority. Referring to anything above it reduces the power of the document.

Whether you believe in a creator and which one is immaterial to the matter at hand: writing a constitution for a secular and pluralistic country that is inclusive and fair minded.

Henry S Pace

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:58

' former US ambassador Douglas Kmiec recommended the inclusion of a preamble which would refer to the existence of a 'Creator'. That implied, the association said, that the values upon which Malta’s legal system should be based – as well as the authority vested in the Constitution by the Maltese people – should derive directly from religious belief. '

This should be the basis of a constitution where the people recognise God in their entire Life.

Anybody suggesting that no reference to the Creator would be condemning himself and the country.

Alex Ellul

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:56

Ramon Casha
Today, 16:42
There is indeed a "religious humanism", though it's rather uncommon. Ours is a secular humanist organisation, and I couldn't find any mention of "atheistic humanism" anywhere. Humanism is by nature strongly opposed to despotism. The majority of people worldwide - humanists or not - are pro-choice. Our members are divided on the matter of abortion, and as such the organisation has not taken sides on the matter.

So, Ramon, what's the membership count of your organisation? Ours, counting, Catholocs, Protestants, Greek Othodox, Hindus, Moslems etc, are over 300, 000. What's yours?
On a global scale, out 7.1 billion people, some 7 billion believe in a creator or such. You have 7 billion more to go. LOL

Victor Pulis

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:56

In God We Trust is printed on the US dollar and that is exactly America's god, the dollar generated out of the sale of weapons and warfare. Giovanni de martino Americans believe in god and yet they live in the most corrupt belligerent and violent country on Earth. And did you know that the masonic pyramid is also printed on the dollar bill?

j brincat

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:51

And exactly why was this ex ambassador invited?


(jb)

Victor Pulis

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:45

Ghax jekk ma tkunx temmen f'Alla xi jzommok li tisraq, toqtol, timmalafama....kif fil-fatt qed jigri. Sirna moderni! Giovanni de Martino
Sur Giovann kemm taf atei qattiela u halliela? Jien naf miljuni ta'fidili ta'kull religjon li joqtlu u jisirqu ghat twemmin taghhom. Jien ateju imma qatt ma qtilt jew sraqt u jekk xi darba nasal biex, ma jkunx ghax ma nemminx f'alla.

Alex Ellul

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:42

Ramon Casha
Today, 16:36
Do you know that long ago, the majority used to believe the world was flat?
Try reading a book: Biocentrism: How Life and Consciousness Are the Keys to Understanding the True Nature of the Universe [by Robert Lanza. Lanza is no fool. He is a scientific genius. The following is the book's description on Amazon.
>>Every now and then, a impel yet radical idea shakes the very foundations of knowledge. The startling discovery that the world was not flat challenged and ultimately changed the way people perceived themselves and their relationships with the world. For most humans of the 15th century, the notion of Earth as ball of rock was nonsense. The whole of Western natural philosophy is undergoing a sea change again, forced upon us by the experimental findings of quantum theory. At the same time, these findings have increased our doubt and uncertainty about traditional physical explanations of the universe's genesis and structure.
Biocentrism completes this shift in worldview, turning the planet upside down again with the revolutionary view that life creates the universe instead of the other way around. In this new paradigm, life is not just an accidental byproduct of the laws of physics.

Biocentrism takes the reader on a seemingly improbable but ultimately inescapable journey through a foreign universe--our own--from the viewpoints of an acclaimed biologist and a leading astronomer. Switching perspective from physics to biology unlocks the cages in which Western science has unwittingly managed to confine itself. Biocentrism shatters the reader's ideas of life, time and space, and even death. At the same time, it releases us from the dull worldview that life is merely the activity of an admixture of carbon and a few other elements; it suggests the exhilarating possibility that life is fundamentally immortal.

Biocentrism awakens in readers a new sense of possibility and is full of so many shocking new perspectives that the reader will never see reality the same way again.<<

Andy Farrugia

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:37

It would be wise for the President's forum to note that where there is no consensus our Constitution should remain as is. Any messing around with particular articles of our Constitution will never be accepted by a large swathe of the population. Now if the President and his forum would like to create multitudes of dissidents then so be it.

Victor Zammit

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:35

This is like the debate we had not so long ago about whether God was to be included in the European constitution. And the option fell for respect for all religions. The late Fr Peter thought that sufficed. The nearest to giving to God what is His and to Caesar what is Caesar’s. Indeed, there are more important things that need reforming in our Constitution. In the first place the total separation of powers: where lawmakers are lawmakers, the executive – cabinet – is of executives and the appointment of judges is made conditional upon scrutiny and approval by parliament. I would not have expected this to come from an American lest he be accused of proselytizing, but the American constitutional model works better to streamline the three organs of the state, and here in Malta, to downsize the excessive influence of partisan politics. Nor would such amendments be forthcoming from the political parties themselves because the system is party-serving. The President’s Forum for Constitutional Reform is a better catalyst. Though of course the office of President might be affected: retain the President as a latter day constitutional ‘monarch’ on the UK model, or make the Office electable and possibly replace that of prime minister.Somewhat groundbreaking, but it is not new and it is not tinkering.

Lina Caruana

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:32

Is everyone believing that the civil laws and civil values in the West have nothing to do with Christianity?

Alex Ellul

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:30

Ramon Casha
Today, 16:55
@Alex Ellul: Kindly stop spreading lies


Ramon Casha, what lies? Can you expand please? Is it the one about killing new-born babies? the March edition of the Journal of Medical Ethics of the UK:
The UK’s Journal of Medical Ethics has this description in its website:
Aims and Scope : Journal of Medical Ethics is a leading international journal that reflects the whole field of medical ethics. The journal seeks to promote ethical reflection and conduct in scientific research and medical practice. It features original articles on ethical aspects of health care, as well as case conferences, book reviews, editorials, correspondence, news and notes. To ensure international relevance JME has Editorial Board members from all around the world including the US, Europe, Australasia and Far East. In one of its recent issues it has this paper published:
After-birth abortion: why should the baby live? By Alberto Giubilini and Francesca Minerva
Having the following Abstract:
Abortion is largely accepted even for reasons that do not have anything to do with the fetus' health. By showing that (1) both fetuses and newborns do not have the same moral status as actual persons, (2) the fact that both are potential persons is morally irrelevant and (3) adoption is not always in the best interest of actual people, the authors argue that what we call ‘after-birth abortion’ (killing a newborn) should be permissible in all the cases where abortion is, including cases where the newborn is not disabled.
One can continue reading the paper here:
http://jme.bmj.com/content/early/2012/03/01/medethics-2011-100411.full
The journal’s editor, Prof Julian Savulescu, director of the Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, claims that the article's authors had received death threats since publishing the article. He said those who made abusive and threatening posts about the study were “fanatics opposed to the very values of a liberal society”.
So, according to this great liberal luminary, it is ok to propose that killing babies is legal, but labels his opponents as fanatics “opposed to the very values of liberal society”.

Joe Xuereb

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:19

I thought he was in Peru, the President!
A Catholic president, of Catholic Malta. Zooms onto Catholic Peru, like a condor with fledglings, there to consort with Catholic missionaries of the Matlese variety (but they beat him to it). And back again to consort with a less than honourably discharged ex-whatever of the USA in Malta, an über Catholic. It seems that the Maltese forget and forgive just like that! If it suits.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-C9n_3diBeA and this I dedicate to the anguishing hunting fraternity of this little island.

Robert Callus

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:17

While I disagree with some xenophobic comments against Mr Kmiec (so what if he's foreigner, can't he express his opinion?), what he's saying is in itself discriminatory. A creator (implying only 1) satisfies those belonging to monotheistic religions, namely Judaism, Christianity and Islam and excludes everybody else. That is those who either believe there are more gods than one, or less.


@Giov Demartino

"Ghax jekk ma tkunx temmen f'Alla xi jzommok li tisraq, toqtol, timmalafama....kif fil-fatt qed jigri"

Though I'm an atheist, I never committed any of those crimes. First of all, they are illegal and while I don't believe in hell, I do believe in prisons, and I'm not that much enthusiastic on becoming an inmate. Secondly, it's because like most fellow non-believers I have morals too. (Doh, an atheist with morals, isn't that an oxymoron? No)

Mary Ann Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:16

@ Raphel Vassallo: Good to know there is indeed an association and that it is properly constituted.
@ Adrian Buckle: The Constitution does not say anything against not being an RC and neither does it exclude non-RC persons from any rights. You well know that. So where's the beef? The actual point is that if humanists have a problem with having Crucifixes in classrooms etc they simply have to live with it because the majority here are RC, practicing or not. I also think that in Malta there is too much religion all over the place but this happens to be a strongly catholic country and while I keep to my opinion I dont go round whining that it's not right or that I am feeling left out of society. It is simply not true as Malta is a very open and peaceful place. So if you dont beleive in the creator, so be it, nobody bothers you but on the other hand you should not go round bothering the vast majority of the people here. You know you can form such association because you live in Malta which is one of a good number of democratic places. Try doing that in a Muslim country. On the other hand, in countries where, like you, the government does not believe in a creator, they ensure that nobody exercises any religion or belief and if allowed are heavily controlled and away from the public eye. Live and let live. You believe whatever you want to and keep it to yourself. Coming out against people who opt to adress the huge majority of people on this land is neither desired nor necessary. Kmiec opted to speak his mind to a Catholic nation. You, and your organisation can equally address people of the same atheist opinion. What's wrong with that? As far as I know there has not been any whining from the church about your association so why should you whine and complain about an ex-ambassador for speaking to his fellow believers? Hiding behind the 'minority' mantra will get your association nowhere.

Roger Tirazona

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:04

Acknowledging a Creator in the Constitution excludes non-believers, Polytheists (such as Hindus), Buddhists, Spiritualists, Pagans......

A belief in a Creator, is a faith that people have a right to in their freedom to worship. Starting off the constitution by acknowledging a creator is impinging on the freedom NOT TO worship. It is an article of faith and not an empirical fact that there is such a being who is a creator and this faith varies amongst different people and is not shared by everyone.


The constitution, being the highest supreme legal codex, should be representative of all the citizens of Malta, whatever their religion or lack of it; at present and in the future.

In the words of Thomas Jefferson, a wall of separation between Church (and any other religions) and State should be built to treat all citizens fairly and democratically, to build a society where it does not matter whether your neighbour believes in 20 gods or none.

Joseph Brincat

Apr 23rd 2012, 17:00

LETS FACE IT,
Religion is a matter of believe NOT of this world,
but Politics of this world > they don't mix !!!!!!!!!

Jesmond Micallef

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:57

Religion represents the general human quest for faith. This spiritual dimension of the human being has proven to be quite "fundamental" to civilisations across the millenia. The timeline which spans from the Neolithic Temples to the modern churches on the Maltese islands bear witness to this. They represent a journey through civilisation and faith.

The Constitution is the Base Law of the Land. It's the "Divine Code" by which laws of a civilised collective are devised and think that an acknowledgement to God would not be out of order at all on the basis of the above. A dominant religious belief is not right neither. A Constitution which reflects a diverse Spiritual and Religious Freedom is very likely the best option. The Maltese Islands have a very complicated history of occupation and these eras of change have all left their mark on these islands. In what is truly and historically Maltese in every respect, a diverse religious culture is never at fault.

This is the future of the Maltese Islands.

P Micallef

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:37

While the President's initiative is laudable, the idea to invite Prof Kmiec to sit on the panel was a big mistake. It could have been one of the reasons why so few people were present. Inviting a foreigner to tell us how to reform the Maltese Constitution is ridiculous. This time round the President's initiative did not meet its objective. It only gave rise to another controversy about religious beliefs. As if we do not have enough controversies to talk about.

Charles Falzon

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:36

What would be disturbing is because there are a minority of non believers they would impose on the majority.

J.C. Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:27

Do the so called 'Humanists' know that there are only a few of them while there are so many millions who believe in God??

Alfred Azzopardi

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:07

Excuse me, who invited this ex-Ambassador, co-incidentally !! a US one, why was he given precedence over other countries' ex-Ambassadors we've had, don't they have valid contributions to make. The Constitution is a purely Maltese legal instrument, why get foreigners involved or haven't we shed our colonial mentality yet.

Joseph Calleja

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:07

Former US ambassador Douglas Kmiec lost his job because of his way of thinking. May I remind Mr Kmiec that the US Constitution makes it clear to separate Church from State and it should be the same here in this country. As a matter of fact the Maltese Constitution should do away with Article 2 so there won't be Church interference in the running of our country. Our constitution is somewhat archaic and needs to be changed.

Adrian Buckle

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:06

While thanking Mr Kmiec for his advice, I think that, as a Maltese citizen, I would prefer a constitution that represents the whole of the Maltese nation, and not differentiating in colour, creed and race.

So thank you Mr Kmiec, but NO THANK YOU!

ALBERT FENECH

Apr 23rd 2012, 16:03

Government of the people, for the people, by the people - Abraham Lincoln. Hence, Constitution of the people, by the people for the people and if it is a wish of the majority of the people that Malta recognises a Creator as its motivator, then yes, this should be in the preamble, as Professor Douglas Kmiec rightly said. The fact that a few dissenting voices still choose to howl in the desert should not detract the majority from their constitutional will. Of course Profs Kmiec had a right to be in Malta in his own right as a Professor the US Constitution and of course President Abela had a right to organise such a sensible and orderly forum. The subject chosen was non-political and should have been of interest to every citizen of Malta and Gozo. The fact that only four members of Parliament chose to attend verifies the fact that the subject was non-political and hence the Parliamentary disinterest. Malta is still, and will remain and should remain, a Roman Catholic country. Under the present Constitution one can be atheist, agnostic and practice a religion of choice without hindrance - that is democracy, and a new Constitution should and would reflect the wishes of the majority whilst still maintaining freedom of worship and expression for minorities. Would any democrat wish otherwise?

ALBERT FENECH

vincent a galea

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:57

Constitutional reform is a concern to be dealt with by the Maltese! We definitely do not need outsiders to tell us what to do and what should/should not be forming part of this very national and patriotic act.

With due respect, I would have thought that the President knows better !

henry caruana

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:57

Time ago while Kmiec was representing the usa in MALTA we objected to few of his
suggestions , particulary, MALTESE farmers visit Afganistan.
Today we all the way with his recommendations
Whether universally accepted or not that a creator exist, nothing to do with us MALTESE, we do
believe / accept and live on the theory.
There no divided MALTESE society in MALTA , 99.9 % are of same belief, though possible not all
practice that belief
The 001% are no less in status and respect and all MALTESE are equal, no class.
In our belief of there exist a creator and as well our religion, legality and political issues are embedded
there in our constitution.
Let humanist association interfere in their own quarters, and not on a matter that concern the
MALTESE population in whole

Patrick Zammit

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:56

Why do devout Christians completely ignore what Jesus wants from them, that is give to Cesare his due?

Alex Ellul

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:53

What is a humanist? What is the definition of a humanist? Are these humanists aware that there is the Christian version of humanism and that humanism is not a prerogative of the atheist? Atheistic humanism has already produced despotic governments, and it is producing rampant killing of the unborn and now also proposing that killing newborns is ethical............

There's Marxist Humanism for which we need no introductions or history quoting.

Can this local version of secular humanism tell us if they support the introduction of abortion in Malta?

A Spiteri

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:50

I completely agree that such a constitution would not represent all the maltese people. A division between state and church is a must. I for one do not believe in religion and believe that religion is the prime source of conflicts in the world. I would not feel that such a constitution would be legitimate if it were to be based on a fairy-tale.

Mr Saviour falzon

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:48

Maltese constitution is for the Maltese citizens. We do not need any foreigner to tell us what is good or what is not good for us.
We have already our elected member of parliament to do our laws.
I believe ,we have enough serious politicians,who will do what is best for our country.
Mr.Kmiec, I think it is better to see what you can do to your country,as it has enough problems.

David Bailey

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:47

This Kmiec guy is really something, his own constitution does not mention a Creator or God anywhere (as it should be), and yet he's telling us ours should.

If we are to base our morals and values on a religious belief (i.e. the Bible I presume), then I look forward to the day when I can rape a woman and make her marry me (Deuteronomy 22:28-29), when I can own and trade slaves as I please (Leviticus 25:44-46), and not having to listen to women during mass (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).

Mary Ann Borg

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:41

On Saturday, nearly all the speakers concurred that the Maltese Constitution should be a reflection of the people it represents. If this is truly the case, then it should also reflect the growing diversity among that same Maltese people."

Which means, according to the 'Malta Humanist Association' that just because there are a few of us who are not Christians, we should not call ourselves Christians, or Roman Catholics even. 'Growing diversity' to this association means that we should abandon the huge majority just for the sake of the few, the very few in fact. How about the Malta Humanist Association show their face? Or is this like Graffiti, with the same few faces making the 'news' for silly reason? Right, who's running this humanist association? Is there a chairman/president anywhere? A secretary maybe? If The Times received a press release, it must have carried some name somewhere. This is not a matter of being atheist or or some other religious belief, this is just the concept that the very few try to always belittle the huge majority and make this same majority look selfish etc, when in fact, it is these same few that are selfish in not accepting that the majority has rights too.

Colin Apap

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:40

Dr George Abela’s initiative to start the ball running on changes in the future Constitution of the Republic of Malta is an intellectual challenge to reflect the new realities around us. Those who prefer to dig their head in the sand would not applaud such a move. Others will be fearful of their vested interests. I was expecting a larger attendance from politicians of both parties and Catholics who have a lot to contribute to have a Constitution by the People for the People.

To be fair to Prof Douglas Kmiec he did not propose a confessional constitution. He only suggested that The Creator would be recognized reflecting the Maltese People’s vision of life and reality.

As lawyer Max Ehrmann’s (1872-1945) inspirational poem – Desiderata states:

“Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul’’

This God, whatever you conceive Him to be, has a place in the heart of the Maltese who are to write this new Constitution.

Giov DeMartino

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:39

Hekk baqa' jonqos issa li nsemmu xi kwalita ta' Creator! Mhux bizzejjed qed inhallu l-knejjes taghna miftuhin biex joffendu lil dawk ta' twemmin iehor!

Joseph Grima

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:35

At the President's seminar , Prof Kmiec's fundamentalist approach to the Constitution did not receive any support. Fr Colin Apap challenged it and so did I. The Chairman gave him repeated opportunities to state and to restate his views but no one followed up on the route that Prof Kmiec had taken. Prof Kmiec keeps on trying to get his views officialized. He may think that as a people we are not sophisticated enough to bring up opposing arguments to his. He is, of course, very wrong . What he is certain of is that his views won't get him into any trouble with the tolerant Maltese people as they did with the Department of State. It is even conceivable that, at some stage , some conservative cleric will come out of the woodwork in support. So I am sure he will keep on trying. ......yawn.......

Patrick Fenech

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:32

@AF Busuttil:

Indeed you are wrong. It is precisely and exclusively the role of the President to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of Malta. Organising such meetings is a noble way of protecting the Constitution from being marginalised and deemed irrelevant by a majority who do not even understand what the constitution is about. If you are in any doubt read the Constitution of our Country. http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&amp;itemid=8566&amp;l=1

As for the humanists... the Constitution or law of the land is not there to create an a la carte menu based on relative norms. It is there to provide an anchoring point upon which law and order are structured. And like all anchoring points these must be determined on the common denominator of the majority. This does not in itself constitute an exclusion of minorities.

Hats off to President Abela for this initiative!

Anthony Scicluna

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:25

Whereas Mr Kmiec's scholarship is noted, may I suggest that he does not interfere in the affairs of other countries? I remind him of the Monroe Doctrine which the gentleman is surely entirely aware of.

Joe Xuereb

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:22

Was Mr. Kmiec talking in Malta? If so, who invited him over?. I thought that as far as Malta was concerned, Mr. Kmiec was history.

Even if Malta were 127% of the Catholic persuasion (which it is not for obvious reasons. Foreigners of different belief systems abound and more and more Maltese are rejecting the notion that religion should be central to one's life) it would still be desirable for the Constitution to reflect Secularism. If the opposite were true, I would feel that as a Maltese citizen I would not be represented by such a Constitution. More and more people will feel this and that, surely, is storing up dissent for the future of this troubled isle.

Jo Meli

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:17

Well said Malta Humanist Association !!!

A.F. Busuttil

Apr 23rd 2012, 15:09

I dont think that this is the President's job , to organise such meetings. We have parlament for this.