To many, a Maltese Elderly Thanksgiving Day has no tangible meaning. But, to the hundreds of senior citizens who attended this year’s 20th anniversary celebration in Sydney on October 3, it is a clear indication of respect and gratitude by society.
To the thousands who have celebrated the day since its inception, it has remained an indelible memory until death. They remembered, as today’s participants do, the generosity and the kindness shown to them.
They were impressed by the symbol chosen by Maltese nun Sr Mary Ann Grima, an olive tree that is robust and capable of regenerating – a symbol of peace, dialogue and heritage – reminiscent of the Malta they left behind.
Gratitude and praise are due to many who helped and contributed. The occasion, which includes Mass, a meal, morning tea, music and entertainment, also offers the experiences of friendship and comradeship and the satisfaction of having one’s contribution to society publicly acknowledged.
Mass this year was celebrated by Fr Robert Galea, who played his Christian message on the guitar, and Fr Benedict Sant, MSSP.
Maltese Elderly Thanksgiving Day, the inspiration of Sr Grima, flowed from the International Year of the Family in 1994. The initial thought was to honour those elderly who were hardly remembered, barely recognised and little appreciated or thanked for their contribution to the establishment of the Maltese in Australia. Help comes from many directions, including Maltese businessmen. Sr Grima’s approach is simple and direct. She tells businesses that the Maltese community contributed much to their success. It is time and appropriate that successful businessmen should now give something in return. Some firms are consistently and highly generous.
When the first Maltese Elderly Thanksgiving Day was organised, about 100 people responded and enjoyed a day together. At that time, there were different reactions among some of the leaders of the Maltese community.
Some thought the flames of enthusiasm of the first effort would quickly die out. Others, a few, accepted Sr Grima’s invitation and continued to lend their support and encouragement.
With none seeking recognition or praise, these people have certainly travelled and arrived with honour and great merit.
The occasion celebrates the contribution of the elderly Maltese migrants and remembers those among them who are forgotten and abandoned. Some have, from the very first, supported Sr Grima’s mission and that of her worthy helpers.
It is important to remember that there are needs; that there is loneliness and other heavy burdens, particularly among elderly migrants. These needs, these sad situations, are often hidden and not made known to visiting dignitaries from Malta.
Mr Boffa has been patron of the Maltese Elderly Thanksgiving Day celebration in Sydney for the past 10 years.