This is an open plea to those involved in the selection of a new archbishop and, eventually, to the selected person himself.

There is the utmost need to seek unity among the faithful. There are two aspects that have been worrying me and I am sure that both could be tackled diplomatically and with faith in Jesus who had been emphatic about loving your neighbour.

My first worry is the number of groups who have the best intentions but are seen by the faithful in general as acting like the Pharisees that Jesus was so critical about. To me, any group can exist so long as it does not try to confuse the public and change prayers that existed for many decades if not centuries.

The second worry is the animosity in parishes and between towns and villages. Many are so proud of the privileges they have accumulated over the years. Others carry their hatred and spite into everyday life. I am very much in favour of our traditional feasts, a culture we inherited from Spain and Sicily. There is nothing pagan in the boisterous celebrations. The danger lies in the animosity.

I have written frequently in this vein. I had offered the outgoing archbishop my help and ideas. I am still more than willing to discuss how we could unite as a Church of Christ. Jesus was against all privileges. He advised against seeking the front seats. Thus, when the Maltese Islands in particular are facing such a strong movement against Christian religion and faced with so many alien groups, I earnestly plead for a concerted effort to remove our differences and act united as the true followers of Jesus Christ. May the new archbishop find the help of all the Maltese.

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