Archbishop Charles Scicluna has toured the MOAS ship Phoenix before it leaves on its next migrants search and rescue mission on Saturday.
MOAs is a private venture headed by Christopher and Regina Catrambone, who greeted the archbishop on board.
Mgr Scicluna met the crew, discussed the MOAS operations, and celebrated Mass on board.
In his comments, Mgr Scicluna said: "I only have a few words to share, to leave this to the beauty of the liturgy, especially on this ship, which I baptised as a ‘New Door of Mercy’. The Holy Father has proclaimed ‘A Year of Mercy’ and I strongly believe that this is the ship of mercy.
"Regina was showing me the door where people come through. That is also a door of mercy, it is a door of life, and the Lord blesses that door and whatever you do in saving lives. May the Lord be with you, may He be your kindness, may He be your courage, your compassion; may the Lord be your reward, and may the Lord provide you with all you need to continue this work of mercy. This is a high point in being human, giving our lives, what we have and who we are, to be companions to other people. May your example be a shining light to all."
The archbishop made a donation from his personal charity fund.
Photos - Photocity