It was a great day for Lija yesterday as the village greeted Bishop-Elect Mgr Charles Scicluna on the day that another of its residents, Tonio Borg, was confirmed as European Commissioner.

Dr Tonio Borg led the congregation in a packed parish church to greet Mgr Scicluna, who has lived in Lija since 1976.

It was a moving ceremony for Mgr Scicluna, during which he was presented with the shepherd's staff - the crosier - which will be blessed at the Mdina Cathedral this evening and used during Mgr Scicluna's episcopal ordination on Saturday morning. The co-celebrants in Mass included the present and past parish priests.

Despite the double celebration yesterday and the fame Lija enjoys for its fireworks, not a single petard was let off, with the fireworks factory not having had its licence renewed because of the proximity of its store to residences. 

Pictures - Images Photo Studio, Naxxar

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