I always held that our Christian values were part and parcel of our identity as Maltese. This year we are commemorating various landmarks in our history, all depicting different stages in our progress as a nation. But, I ask, why is it that our present leaders are of the impression that our religious traditions, rather than enriching us as a nation, are dampening our true identity? Why is it that in the name of separation of powers between Church and State the authorities want to put aside our Christian values and adulterate them?

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat stated that through the introduction of civil unions, Malta has truly embraced European values. We seem to be shy to proclaim publicly that we, as Catholics, treasure our Christian values that, after all, are founded on the dignity of the human person.

In order to show that we are progressive and liberal we demean our Christian values and instead, allude to secular or European values.

We joined Europe not to change our identity as Maltese but to be enriched and enrich other nations by promoting sound economical, social and moral values that help us live together as one family of nations. In the name of equality, non-discrimination and individual rights, our society is becoming more secular at the cost of losing its moral fibre.

Individual rights are taking over the good of society as a whole. Rather than seeking the common good we are focusing more on individual interests.

Had the government heeded the voices of all Maltese, including the majority whose Christian beliefs are fundamental to the way they live their lives, the civil unions legislation would have been an opportunity to bring about greater unity and would have made us proud of being Maltese. By ignoring the social teaching of the Church and by refusing to listen to the moral voice, we have distorted our true identity as Maltese.