‘Message of hope’ for the Church as three new priests ordained in Valletta

Under the soaring arches of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a hush fell over the congregation as Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna intoned the ancient words of ordination. The sun streamed through the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colours onto the marble floor, as if heaven itself was smiling down on the three men about to embark on a new chapter of their lives.

Meet Rev. Dr. Matthew Azzopardi, Rev. Dr. David Muscat, and Rev. Dr. Jonathan Farrugia – the latest additions to the Catholic Church’s Maltese clergy. Their ordination on Saturday, 25th June, was more than just a religious ceremony; it was a message of hope, a beacon of faith in these challenging times.

Each of the new priests has a unique story, but all share a common thread: a deep sense of vocation and a desire to serve God and His people. Rev. Dr. Azzopardi, a native of Żebbuġ, has spent years studying and teaching theology. Rev. Dr. Muscat, from Birkirkara, brings a wealth of experience in youth ministry. Rev. Dr. Farrugia, hailing from Qrendi, has dedicated his life to the Church, having served as a deacon for several years.

“It’s not just about us,” said Rev. Dr. Azzopardi in an interview after the ceremony. “It’s about the people we’ll serve, the lives we’ll touch. It’s a huge responsibility, but also a great honour.”

The ordination ceremony was a blend of ancient tradition and modern relevance. The cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was filled with a sense of history and solemnity. Yet, the faces of the congregation – young and old, families and friends – reflected a sense of hope and anticipation.

The rite of ordination involves several key moments. The candidates lie prostrate on the floor, a symbol of humility and submission. They then kneel before the Archbishop, who lays hands on their heads, praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Finally, they are presented with the symbols of their new office: a paten and chalice, representing their role in the Eucharist.

“It’s a moment of profound grace,” said Rev. Dr. Muscat. “You feel a sense of awe, of being part of something much bigger than yourself.”

With their ordination, Rev. Drs. Azzopardi, Muscat, and Farrugia now take up their posts in parishes across Malta. Rev. Dr. Azzopardi will serve at St. Joseph’s Church in Żebbuġ, Rev. Dr. Muscat at St. Helen’s Church in Birkirkara, and Rev. Dr. Farrugia at St. Mary’s Church in Qrendi.

As they embark on this new journey, they bring with them not just theological knowledge and pastoral experience, but also a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to service. They are, in many ways, the embodiment of the Church’s message of hope – a hope that is practical, tangible, and rooted in the lives of ordinary people.

“We’re here to serve, to listen, to support,” said Rev. Dr. Farrugia. “We’re not just priests; we’re brothers, friends, confidants. We’re here to walk with people, to share their joys and sorrows, to help them grow in faith.”

And so, under the watchful gaze of the cathedral’s patron saint, the three new priests stepped forth, ready to embrace their future, ready to serve. The message of hope was clear: the Church in Malta is alive, vibrant, and poised for a new chapter.

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