In the heart of Rabat, just off the bustling Republic Street, stands the grand Archbishop’s Palace. It’s a weekday morning, and the usual hum of tourists and locals is replaced by the soft rustling of leaves in the courtyard. This is where Mgr Vincent Deguara, the Archbishop Emeritus of Malta, spent a significant part of his life, leaving an indelible mark on the island’s spiritual and cultural scene. But who was Mgr Deguara, and what made him such a beloved figure in Malta?

Born in Rabat in 1936, Vincent Deguara was the eldest of seven children. His father, a carpenter, and his mother, a homemaker, instilled in him a strong sense of faith and community. Young Vincent’s calling was evident early on. He joined the seminary in 1951 and was ordained a priest in 1960. His rise through the ecclesiastical ranks was steady and impressive. He served as secretary to Archbishop Michael Gonzi, then became auxiliary bishop in 1996, and finally Archbishop of Malta in 2006, a position he held until his retirement in 2014.

But Mgr Deguara’s influence extended far beyond Malta’s shores. He served as Apostolic Nuncio to several countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. In Rome, he worked at the Vatican’s Secretariat of State, gaining the respect of popes and cardinals alike. Yet, despite his international acclaim, he remained deeply rooted in Malta, always ready to return and serve his people.

Mgr Deguara’s tenure as Archbishop was marked by his commitment to dialogue and understanding. He was a strong advocate for peace and social justice, often speaking out against injustice and inequality. He was also a champion of interfaith dialogue, fostering closer ties with Malta’s Muslim community. In 2009, he signed a historic agreement with the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, recognizing the right of Muslims to pray in the Great Mosque in Valletta.

His love for Malta was evident in his initiatives to preserve the island’s cultural heritage. He oversaw the restoration of several historic churches and supported the creation of the Malta Cathedral Museum. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society, a charity dedicated to promoting the common good.

Mgr Vincent Deguara passed away in 2019, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. Yet, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the bridges he built, and the institutions he strengthened. Today, as you walk through the quiet streets of Rabat, remember that you’re treading in the footsteps of a man who dedicated his life to serving God and Malta.

As we look to the future, let’s remember Mgr Deguara’s example. Let’s strive to build bridges, not walls. Let’s work towards a Malta that is more just, more compassionate, and more united. That, perhaps, is the best way to honor his enduring legacy.