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

As the sun set over the Grand Harbour, a new figure stepped onto Maltese soil. Mgr Wojciech Załuski, the freshly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Malta, arrived at the Valletta waterfront, marking the beginning of his diplomatic mission to the tiny Mediterranean island nation.

From Poland to Malta: A Journey of Faith and Diplomacy

Born in Poland, Mgr Załuski brings a wealth of experience to his new role. The 54-year-old bishop has served in the Vatican’s diplomatic corps for over two decades, with postings in countries like the United States, Mexico, and most recently, the Philippines. His appointment was announced by Pope Francis in late 2021, succeeding Archbishop Alberto Bottari de Castello who served as Nuncio since 2016.

For Mgr Załuski, the move to Malta is a homecoming of sorts. He has fond memories of his time as a young priest studying in Rome, where he would often visit Malta for spiritual retreats. “I’ve always been drawn to Malta’s rich history and strong Catholic faith,” he shared in an exclusive interview with Hot Malta. “I’m excited to serve the Maltese Church and people in this beautiful island nation.”

Navigating Malta’s Multicultural scene

Malta, with its unique blend of Mediterranean and European influences, presents a fascinating challenge for Mgr Załuski. The island nation, known for its strong Catholic heritage, is also home to a growing multicultural community, with immigrants from countries like Libya, Nigeria, and the Philippines. The Nuncio’s diplomatic experience and fluency in several languages, including English, Italian, Spanish, and Polish, will be invaluable in navigating this diverse scene.

One of his first stops was the parish of St. George in Msida, where he met with the local community and celebrated mass. “It was wonderful to see the vibrancy and diversity of the Maltese Church,” he said. “I look forward to visiting more parishes and communities across the islands.”

Priorities and Plans: A Look Ahead

When asked about his priorities, Mgr Załuski emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration. “I want to work closely with the Maltese Bishops’ Conference, the local Church, and other religious communities,” he said. “Together, we can address the challenges and opportunities facing the Maltese Church today.”

He also expressed a keen interest in Malta’s young people. “I’ve seen firsthand the impact of the pandemic on youth around the world. I want to reach out to Maltese youth, listen to their concerns, and support them in their faith journey.”

As for plans, Mgr Załuski is looking forward to visiting Gozo, Malta’s sister island, and exploring the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. “I’ve heard so much about the beauty and spirituality of Gozo,” he said. “I can’t wait to experience it for myself.”

In the meantime, the new Apostolic Nuncio is settling into his residence at the Vatican Embassy in Floriana. “It’s a beautiful building with a rich history,” he said. “I’m grateful to call it home as I serve the Maltese people.”

As Mgr Wojciech Załuski begins his mission in Malta, one thing is clear: the tiny island nation is set to benefit from his wealth of experience, linguistic skills, and deep faith. The future looks bright for the Maltese Church under his guidance.