The citizens of Għajnsielem proved yet again that – in spite of the best efforts of Mepa to abolish Christmas over recent years – that they could produce the biggest and best nativity play in the Mediterranean and, probably, also in Europe.

Since its inception five years ago (one year cancelled by the caring authorities), Bethlehem-in-Għajnsielem has attracted more visitors, both local and foreign, than any other tourist activity on these islands within the span of four weeks.

The live event culminated with the arrival of the Three Wise Men from the East. They used to set off from Mellieħa to start their journey ‘overseas’. This year, they started from Rome, somewhat further east.

The only strange element was that, from the various media reports, it was difficult to establish whether it was the Minister for Gozo who had the starring role in this pantomime (taking the Wise Men with him for additional colour), or the Wise Men who allowed a politician to tack on to the event to give government credibility to the Christmas story.

It seems that there is no activity – not even the re-enactment of the birth of Christ – in this country that does not involve politics. The actual number of wise men is not mentioned in the Bible, so maybe the wise minister was playing the role of the fourth ‘king’.

No matter. At least, his presence would have ensured that they did not miss the ferry!