The Maltese should treat foreigners with respect, regardless of race or colour, the Archbishop said in his Christmas message.

At the end of a year where racism and distrust of foreigners has once again seeped into the national news agenda, the Archbishop said the Maltese should welcome foreigners who live among us.

"Let us remember so many Maltese families who sought a new beginning in foreign lands - our dearest emigrants who felt it was necessary to leave their homeland. It took great courage for them to leave their homeland and seek a future in other countries, to build a new life."

The Archbishop asked why should a foreigner receive a lower salary than a normal Maltese citizen when he is also covered by the laws governing social security.

Delivering his message at Id-Dar tal-Providenza, Mgr Scicluna underlined the need to embrace the elderly during Christmas.

“We all know how difficult it is to live in solitude, and it is a wonderful gesture to commit ourselves to visiting those who are on their own so that they may find company. Let us think of these people: even by phoning them or by sending a message, or a visit which might require time - a precious gift which we should also share."

He recalled that the Church has recently opened the "doors of mercy" of its cathedrals and churches.

"That pilgrimage which leads one to the door of mercy is not only a symbolic journey; it is also a journey of commitment, a commitment which we all undertake during this year. It is a commitment to change our lifestyle and practice mercy. How wonderful it would be if, during this Christmas season, we were to practice the spiritual acts of mercy by sharing our knowledge with others, by offering sound advice to those who ask for it, by being patient even in adversity."