The Papal Mass on the granaries, the high point of Pope Benedict's visit to Malta, is about to get under way.

Thousands of people have turned up on the historic square to join in the celebration with some 700 priests including a number of Cardinals, the bishops of Malta and Maltese bishops who serve abroad.

The readings will be read by Sr Bernadette Galea, Provincial, Sisters of of St Joseph and Antoine Vassallo.

The bidding prayers will be made Bro Saviour Gatt – De La Salle Brothers, Carmen Agius – President, Malta Catholic Action, Mussie Debesay – a migrant from Ethopia, Sarah Bonnici – from Gozo and Marlene Dimech - a Maltese emigrant in Australia.

The offerings will be presented by Family Muscat - parents of the late Fr Joshua Muscat, of Nadur, who died aged 27 after illness, and family Spiteri - A Maltese family representing Maltese families.

Pope Benedict will give Holy Communion to Maltese dignitaries and a number of Maltese suffering serious problems, including illness.

The Mass is starting some 25 minutes late, having been meant to start at 10 a.m.

The Pope will sit on the altar before a large cross with the backdrop being a typically Maltese bamboo curtain (hasira),

President George Abela is leading the congregation.

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