The 19th centenary anniversary of the martyrdom of St Publius in the lions’ arena in Athens falls on January 21, 2018. I have studied and written many articles about this event.

I have used writings by doctors of the Church and other scholars to back my contributions. Prejudice apart, there is absolutely no doubt about the facts.

Copies of all my writings had been forwarded to the Archbishop. I always receive an acknowledgement of their receipt and never had any adverse reaction to any of them.

Like many others, I have sought to discuss the facts about Malta’s first canonised saint and the patron saint of the islands.

Other far less important events have been properly celebrated. Postage stamps and medals have also been issued but there are those too proud to accept the undeniable truth. There is still ample time to plan proper celebrations.

Will the teachings of Jesus prevail or is pique and vengeance more important to the Catholic Church in Malta?

It seems that powerful groups can dictate and suppress the absolute truth and that some seem to be terrified of them.

I repeat that I am still willing to debate, even in public, the truth about St Publius.