Three New Priests Bring Hope to Malta’s Catholic Community

Three New Priests Bring Hope to Malta’s Catholic Community

Under the soaring arches of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, a sense of renewal filled the air as three new priests were ordained last Sunday. The event, a beacon of hope in these challenging times, saw the Maltese Catholic community come together to celebrate the ordination of Rev. Dr. Joseph Farrugia, Rev. Dr. David Muscat, and Rev. Dr. Matthew Schembri.

Ordination Amidst Uncertainty

The ordination ceremony, presided over by Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna, took place amidst the rare circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cathedral, usually packed to the brim for such occasions, echoed with the sound of social distancing, as worshippers maintained a safe distance from one another. Yet, the spirit of unity and hope was undeniable, a testament to the resilience of the Maltese Catholic community.

The three new priests, all in their early thirties, bring with them a sense of youth and vitality that promises to invigorate the Church in Malta. Rev. Dr. Joseph Farrugia, a native of Birkirkara, has a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. Rev. Dr. David Muscat, from Qrendi, holds a doctorate in Dogmatic Theology from the same institution. Rev. Dr. Matthew Schembri, from Żurrieq, has a doctorate in Moral Theology.

Ordination as a Beacon of Hope

Archbishop Scicluna, in his homily, emphasized the significance of the ordination, not just for the new priests, but for the entire Maltese Church. “In these challenging times, the ordination of these three priests is a message of hope,” he said. “It is a reminder that the Church in Malta continues to grow and adapt, ready to face the challenges of the future with faith and courage.”

The ordination also marked a return to normalcy for the Church in Malta, which has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. With restrictions easing, the Church is gradually resuming its usual activities, a development that has been welcomed by the faithful.

Rev. Dr. Farrugia, speaking to Hot Malta after the ceremony, expressed his gratitude for the support he had received from the Maltese community. “I am humbled by the outpouring of support from the people of Malta,” he said. “I look forward to serving the Church and the community to the best of my abilities.”