The article by Veronica Stivala (The Sunday Times, January 25) unfortunately left out the human aspect of Archbishop Michael Gonzi. The general impression was that he was prim and proper, but this was mainly due to what he considered to be the need to maintain a dignified stance as befitted his position.

Behind the scenes, Mgr Gonzi was constantly worried about the people and more especially the children. Using the words of Jesus Christ, for him the children were of prime importance. He was interested not only in their spiritual training but also their material welfare.

In over 30 years that I was involved in children's programmes on Rediffusion, I used to be summoned to visit him so he would guide and instruct me on the importance of caring for children and the great responsibility we carried in this regard.

He hardly ever lost the opportunity to meet with children and never missed any of the events that I used to organise for them. The Archbishop felt that it was far easier to mix with children as they had no inhibitions.

Mgr Gonzi might be best known for his public life and the politically turbulent periods he lived in. But, he was a caring spiritual leader, human albeit paternalistic.

He used to start each and every homily with the words "My dear brothers and beloved children." This was not just a formal address; it came from his heart.

To him, all the faithful, indeed all Maltese, were like beloved children. Many did not agree with his political approach but none could question his Christian sincerity.