The family, created through marriage, constituted an everlasting bond between one man and one woman, and should continue to serve as the natural and social environment in which children were born and reared, the bishops said.

In a pastoral letter for the elections (see pdf links below) Archbishop Paul Cremona, Gozo bishop Mario Grech and auxiliary bishop Charles J. Scicluna said the family, the younger generation, the poor and those who were suffering, and the environment were four aspects of major importance.

They said:

“It would be beneficial if the State, through its institutions, through any laws which are promulgated, through its policies, were to endorse this institution of the family which the majority of the Maltese people still hold dear to their hearts.

“When the need arises to promulgate laws with respect to different forms of relationships, then the State should safeguard and guarantee the dignity of every individual, without diminishing the essential role of the family as father and mother, together with their children.”

The bishops said that the younger generation should continue to benefit from all services which were necessary for their education and which enhanced their work prospects.

“Every effort should be made to intensify the battle against the drug market, which is so destructive and which ensnares our youth in its nasty trap.”

The bishops expressed their appreciation for the constant efforts to reduce poverty and alleviate the suffering in Maltese society.

“In the process of economic progress, every endeavour should be made for any resources to be distributed fairly, and for the working conditions to undergo constant improvement.”

On the environment, they said this was an invaluable patrimony “we are duty-bound to care for and safeguard”. 

They said that every form of progress should be sustainable development and in accordance with the laws of the country.

The bishops hoped that the electoral campaign would proceed in a spirit of respect towards the truth and one another, for the people’s verdict to be honoured in all honesty and given the assurance it deserved.