Three New Faces of Hope: Priest Ordinations Grace Valletta

Under the soaring arches of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a sense of renewal filled the air as three new priests took their vows in Valletta. The ordination ceremony, held on a sun-drenched Saturday, was a beacon of hope and continuity in these challenging times.

From Seminary to Sanctuary

The journey of these three men, Mgr. Mario Attard, Mgr. David Muscat, and Mgr. Jonathan Azzopardi, began years ago in the seminary. Now, they stand ready to serve their communities, marking a significant moment for the Maltese Church.

For Mgr. Mario Attard, the ordination was a culmination of years of study and introspection. “It’s a great responsibility,” he said, “but I’m ready to serve God and His people.”

Ordination Amidst Uncertainty

The ordination ceremony was a poignant reminder of the Church’s resilience amidst uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the Church, with empty pews and virtual masses becoming the norm. Yet, the ordination of these three priests was a testament to the Church’s enduring spirit.

Archbishop Charles Scicluna, who presided over the ceremony, emphasized the importance of these ordinations. “They are a message of hope,” he said, “a sign that the Church continues to grow and serve, despite the challenges we face.”

: A New Chapter

As the new priests embark on their ministries, they bring with them a wealth of experiences and ideas. Mgr. David Muscat, for instance, plans to engage with young people, using technology to reach out to them. “We need to meet them where they are,” he said, “and that’s often online.”

Mgr. Jonathan Azzopardi, meanwhile, is eager to serve the elderly, a community he believes is often overlooked. “They have so much wisdom to share,” he said, “and we need to listen to them.”

As the ceremony ended and the new priests processed out of St. John’s, the streets of Valletta seemed to echo with hope. The Church, it seemed, was ready to face the future, one ordination at a time.