I believe Archbishop Emeritus Paul Cremona is one of the most humane, humble, affable, approachable and charismatic personalities who has ever graced our small nation.

When he became Archbishop in January 2007, he had set out to build bridges, and with God’s help he managed to build several of them during his eight years at the helm. His pastoral visits to all the parishes were an innovation to bring him closer to all the members of the Church. He was a man of the people. He loved being with them. He loved loving them.

I am sure there are many individuals and families out there who had wonderful close encounters with him, and who would have their own story to relate. It is a known fact that people used to wait at his doorstep in Attard in the early hours of the day, to be allowed in and discuss important matters with him, and Cremona would find time for everybody. His wise counsels would emanate from a heart that sincerely cared.

Throughout his time at the spiritual helm the toughest of challenges had come along, including the introduction of divorce, same-sex marriage and paedophilia by certain members of the clergy. These issues must have started pulling the rug from under his feet, as apart from having to face the fierce winds of change from outside, he may also have had to deal with the greater defying adversities from within.

Had the latest unfair remarks not been made public in the papers, but those responsible resorted to a frank and fraternal dialogue in the parlour of his house before rushing into print, Cremona may have opted to stay longer in office. But alas, the latest comments on his leadership must have obliterated all precious possibilities for him to have second thoughts on his decision to tender his resignation.

It takes a man of great strength to find the courage to step down just as Pope Benedict XVI did, when the time was ripe. Pope Francis himself declared that he would be ready to follow in his predecessor’s footsteps if his health started undermining his leadership.

Thanks a million dear Mgr Cremona, for the wonderful years you loyally sacrificed for your flock. Throughout that time, you certainly managed to build the greatest ‘state of the art’ bridge, because you managed to bring the Archbishop closer to the people and the people closer to the Archbishop than ever before.