Archbishop Scicluna Discharged After Heart Surgery

Malta’s Archbishop Charles Scicluna was discharged from Mater Dei Hospital yesterday, a week after undergoing successful heart surgery. The 69-year-old prelate, who has been at the helm of the Maltese Catholic Church since 2015, was greeted by well-wishers as he left the hospital, a testament to the outpouring of support and prayers from the local community.

The Surgical Procedure

Archbishop Scicluna underwent a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedure last Monday. The surgery, performed by a team of local and international medical professionals, involved rerouting blood around blocked arteries to improve blood flow to the heart. The operation was deemed successful, with the Archbishop recovering well post-surgery.

Road to Recovery

The Archbishop will now continue his recovery at the Archbishop’s Palace in Floriana. While he is expected to make a full recovery, it will take time for him to regain his full strength and resume his duties. The Maltese Curia has announced that the Archbishop will not be celebrating public masses or attending official engagements for the next few weeks.

In a statement, the Curia expressed its gratitude to the medical team at Mater Dei Hospital for their professionalism and dedication, as well as the countless Maltese who have been praying for the Archbishop’s swift recovery. They also reminded the public that while the Archbishop is convalescing, the work of the Church continues, with auxiliary bishops and other clergy stepping in to ensure the smooth running of diocesan affairs.

Archbishop Scicluna, a native of Birkirkara, has been a prominent figure in the Maltese Church for decades. His leadership has been marked by a focus on dialogue, transparency, and reform. His convalescence has been a source of concern for many Maltese, who have been offering their prayers and well-wishes.

**“I am deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from the Maltese people. I am grateful for their prayers and I look forward to resuming my duties as soon as I am fully recovered,” Archbishop Scicluna said in a statement released by the Curia.