Charmaine Attard, leader, Praise the Name of Jesus Prayer Group, Tal-Ibraġ writes:

Fr Mario was a precious treasure to our group to which he was spiritual director for 19 years. From the start we developed a bond of the strongest kind. Not only did he serve us as confessor, counsellor and teacher but he was a wise father and a faithful friend to us all.

His tenderness of spirit and gentleness of heart were what made him a true charismatic shepherd. With his gifts of great humility, patience and understanding, Fr Mario encouraged each and every one of us to rise to the challenge.

The bible was his constant companion, which he shared with us lovingly. His very nature encouraged us to work for peace, to be discreet and to be courageous in affirming the truths of the gospel.

Being young at heart, he managed to reach out to the different age groups within our prayer group. We shall always remember his love for creation, the arts and music. We shall also miss his jovial sense of humour.

Never compromising, his mission was to lead us to The Way, The Truth and The Life.

For this we shall be eternally grateful.

Fr Mario has run the race faithfully and we pray he is now receiving his eternal reward.