Pope Benedict has urged the Church in Malta to continue to collaborate with the civil authorities to keep Catholic institutions exemplary in the safeguarding of children, the Secretary of State of the Holy See told the Prime Minister in a letter.

The letter, dated April 29, was conveyed to Dr Gonzi today by the Apostolic Nuncio today.

In his letter, the Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, conveyed the Pope's gratitude to the government for the welcome given to him during his visit to Malta.

He said that the Pope "is confident that your government will continue to be faithful to the great Christian heritage of your islands through the letter and spirit of your laws and customs."

One of the highlights of the Pope's visit to Malta had been his meeting with men who said they were sexually abused while they were children in Church Homes.

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