New Apostolic Nuncio Mgr Wojciech Załuski: A Fresh Face at the Vatican’s Malta Embassy

As the sun set over the Grand Harbour, a familiar sight for many Maltese, an unfamiliar face arrived on our shores. Mgr Wojciech Załuski, the new Apostolic Nuncio to Malta, stepped off the plane at Malta International Airport, ready to take up his post as the Vatican’s ambassador to our islands.

Who is Mgr Wojciech Załuski?

Born in Poland in 1967, Mgr Załuski is no stranger to diplomatic service. He has served as the Apostolic Nuncio to several African countries, most recently to Ghana. Before his diplomatic postings, he was a professor of canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. His appointment to Malta was announced by Pope Francis in July, succeeding Archbishop Albert Pallotti who served as Apostolic Nuncio from 2015 to 2021.

What does the Apostolic Nuncio do?

The Apostolic Nuncio, or Papal Nuncio, is the Vatican’s ambassador to a particular country. In Malta’s case, Mgr Załuski will be representing the Holy See to our government and will also serve as the liaison between the Vatican and the local Catholic Church. He will reside at the Apostolic Nunciature, located in the quiet streets of Ta’ Xbiex, a stone’s throw from the Grand Master’s Palace.

What’s on the agenda for Mgr Załuski?

Mgr Załuski’s first order of business will likely be to meet with local government officials, including Prime Minister Robert Abela, and the Maltese Bishops’ Conference. He will also be expected to attend and participate in various religious and cultural events, such as the annual celebrations of the Feast of Santa Marija in August and the traditional Christmas Mass at St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

One of the key issues he may address is the ongoing debate surrounding civil liberties and religious freedom in Malta. With the recent changes to the divorce and abortion laws, the Catholic Church’s role in Maltese society and politics is under scrutiny. Mgr Załuski’s diplomatic skills will be tested as he navigates these complex waters.

In the coming months, we can expect to see Mgr Załuski engaging with the local community, visiting parishes, and getting to know the Maltese people. As he settles into his new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that could help shape the Vatican’s relationship with Malta in the years to come.

Welcome to Malta, Mgr Wojciech Załuski. We look forward to seeing the unique mark you will leave on our islands.