PONTIFICAL COUNCIL FOR THE FAMILY

ADDRESS AT THE PORT OF THE BAY OF SAINT PAUL

Malta
28 June 2009

Very Reverend Parish Priest Father Joseph Cilia,
Very Reverend members of the Franciscan Community,
Reverend Priests and Religious,
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I greet all of you with the words of Paul to the Corinthians: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Cor 1:1).

I imagine Saint Paul saying – at least with his heart, if not with his voice – these same words to your ancestors, the inhabitants of Malta, as soon as he came ashore, in this wonderful bay which you call San Pawl il-Bahar. We are gathered in the same place where the Maltese lit up the huge fire to warm those who came ashore from the stormy sea, as narrated by St Luke.

Great was the remarkable hospitality shown by your ancestors at the time, as has been the unfailing welcome shown throughout history by the Maltese people.

For this, I am sure, the exemplary and innate kindness of Malta will once again be made known within this parish community, as you welcome countless visitors.

Christians that you are, may all visitors experience today the warmth of your “spiritual fire”, that is, the peace that Christ gifts to you and your families, and your parish community! Amen.

May Almighty God bless you: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit!