267 children and their proud parents gathered outside Ta' Pinu Sanctuary this evening for the first ever Confirmation ceremony held jointly by all the parishes of Gozo. 

The ceremony was led by the new Apostolic Nuncio Mgr Aldo Cavalli, Gozo Bishop Mario Grech, Archbishop Paul Cremona, Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna and  Emeritus Archishop Joseph Mercieca.

The ceremony saw the introduction of a scarlet cape for all the children receiving the sacrament of Confirmation in Gozo.

Bishop Mario Grech explained when interviewed on TVAM this morning that this decision followed the decision by late Gozo Bishop Nikol Cauchi to introduce a common dress for those who received their First Holy Communion.

He said the new cape would help bring the focus of the ceremony on the religious significance.

"This is not a fashion show" he said, adding that in previous ceremonies the attire of children receiving Holy Communion (aged 12) was more akin to that of adults.

The cost of the capes was also being borne by the community, helping to bring costs down for the parents, the bishop said.

Margerita Muscat wearing the new scarlet toga, receives the Sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop Scicluna.