Relations between Archbishop Emeritus Giuseppe Mercieca and the late Prime Minister Dom Mintoff were often difficult but the two managed to build a bridge “bringing calm, serenity and justice” to the country.

An insight into the relations between the two is given in Mgr Mercieca’s memoirs, launched today.

The memoirs are written by former Charles Buttiġieġ, Curia public relations officer, when Mgr Mercieca was in office.

The memoirs also recount an episode of when Mgr Mercieca admitted he had a girlfriend before he entered the seminary, when asked if he did so by a schoolgirl.

Mr Buttiġieġ described working with Mgr Mercieca an “honour”.

Speaking during the launch he said the memoirs would lead to a better understanding of the circumstances and reasons behind the decisions taken in “times of great trial” in the relations between the Church and State and how, “with the help of his great faith in God and several personal sacrifices,” he managed to reach reasonable but strong solutions for the good of everyone.

The launch was held at Palazzo De Piro. A frail looking Mgr Mercieca was present but did not speak, obeying doctors’ orders to rest.

The book was released to mark the 40 years of the bishop’s Episcopal ordination, which will be celebrated on Monday with Mass at the Mdina Cathedral at 6pm.

The proceeds of the book will go to Dar Tal-Kleru.