Those in authority are morally obliged to heed the less fortunate and actively ensure their rights are safeguarded, Archbishop Paul Cremona said during yesterday’s Independence Day Pontifical Mass.
Addressing a congregation comprising the President, the Prime Minister and a host of dignitaries at St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Mgr Cremona noted that most suffering was the result of the pride of those who held some form of authority or power, even within a family environment.
He observed that there were some who would not be able to escape their dire situation without the help of others. This, he said, was also the case among poor and rich countries.
He homed in on the complexity inherent in the word “justice” during Mass marking the 48th anniversary of Malta’s independence.
“Yet, the justice Jesus refers to proceeds from man’s very nature, for man is created in God’s image. Each interpersonal relationship between people should be marked by a hunger and thirst for justice, including that for others.”
Unfortunately, those who strive for good were sometimes persecuted.
The Archbishop also underlined three beatitudes which should form the basis of society: those who hunger for justice, the merciful and the peacemakers.
He concluded the homily with an invitation to everyone to examine their conscience in relation to their contribution to society, referring to it as “the greatest gift one can give the country on Independence Day”.
Mass was preceded by a military parade headed by Malta’s first female parade commander, Major Ruth Ruggier.
President George Abela and Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi were each given national salutes.
Dr Abela was then invited to inspect the Guard of Honour as the band of the Armed Forces of Malta performed the inspection waltz.