The Provincial of the Franciscan Capuchins is looking into claims by a number of Marsa parishioners that their parish priest is introducing “modern ideas” and sidelining the work carried out by his predecessors.
This group of people from the Holy Trinity parish is calling for Fr Leonard Falzon’s removal.
Speaking on their behalf, Horace Grima said he sent an e-mail to the Church authorities, including Provincial Martin Micallef, to protest against Fr Falzon’s ways.
When contacted, Rev Dr Micallef said: “We are still in the process of attentively listening to all parties concerned regarding the referred situation.”
Mr Grima said the complaints were sent more than a week ago but they have not heard from anyone yet. In the meantime a Facebook page with more than 400 followers was set up to express frustration.
The complaints include the cancellation of solemn adoration in January known as Kwaranturi and Lenten talks.
Parishioners are also disappointed that the procession of the Lady of Sorrows only used three roads, while the collection for the Holy Trinity feast was launched just a couple of months before the feast. Because of this only some street lights were switched on, while the church facade was not lit up when the titular statue was being removed from its niche, Mr Grima said.
We are in the process of attentively listening to all parties concerned
Another complaint is that the village choir does not sing during funerals any more and the parish priest is allegedly opposing the restoration of the church organ.
They are calling for immediate action to stop the “damage” within the parish.
Fr Falzon could not be contacted for his comments as he is at a retreat.
Another clash between parishioners and their pastoral leader took place earlier this summer. Though no official reason was given by the Church, it appears there was discontent among some parishioners in Mġarr who objected to his style of leadership from the very start.
The Mġarr parish priest was replaced less than six months after he was appointed.