In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling St. George’s Square, you’ll find the office of Dr. Alex Borg, a seasoned politician and a vocal supporter of Pope Francis. As the sun casts its warm glow on the historic buildings surrounding the square, Borg, a prominent member of the Malta Labour Party, is not your typical defender of the Pope. He’s a populist, a man of the people, and he’s got a lot to say about the man from Argentina who leads the Catholic Church.

Malta, a predominantly Catholic country, has always had a soft spot for Pope Francis. His humble beginnings, his progressive stance on social issues, and his commitment to the poor and marginalized have resonated with many Maltese. But for Borg, it’s more than just admiration. It’s a deep sense of kinship, a shared understanding of the struggles of the working class, and a commitment to social justice that transcends borders.

“Pope Francis understands the plight of the ordinary man,” Borg says, leaning back in his chair, his office window framing the iconic Grandmaster’s Palace. “He’s not just a figurehead. He’s a man of the people, and that’s something we can relate to here in Malta.”

Borg has been vocal in his defense of Pope Francis’ agenda, especially when it comes to issues like immigration and climate change. He sees the Pope’s stance on these issues as a reflection of the values that Maltese society holds dear – compassion, hospitality, and a deep respect for the environment.

“When Pope Francis speaks about welcoming migrants with open arms, he’s not just talking about Italy or Spain,” Borg says. “He’s talking about Malta too. We’re a small island, but we’ve always been a beacon of hope for those seeking refuge. The Pope understands that, and he’s proud of what we’ve done.”

Borg also praises the Pope’s commitment to tackling climate change, a issue that’s particularly pressing for a small island nation like Malta. “The Pope understands that we’re on the frontline of this crisis,” Borg says. “He’s not just talking about it. He’s doing something about it. And that’s something we can all learn from.”

As the sun begins to set over the Grand Harbour, casting a warm glow over the Three Cities, Borg reflects on the Pope’s legacy. “Pope Francis has reminded us that the Church is not some distant, unapproachable institution,” he says. “It’s a living, breathing thing, made up of ordinary people like you and me. And that’s something worth fighting for.”

Borg’s defense of Pope Francis is more than just political posturing. It’s a reflection of the deep respect and affection that many Maltese feel for the Pope. It’s a testament to the shared values that bind us, and a reminder that, despite our differences, we’re all part of something bigger.

As Borg stands up to shake my hand, the bells of the nearby St. George’s Church begin to toll, their sound echoing through the square. It’s a fitting end to our conversation, a reminder that, in Malta, the spirit of Pope Francis is alive and well.