Semira Abbas Shalan
Monday, 8 September 2025, 12:52
Last update: about 18 hours ago
Archbishop Charles Scicluna celebrated a pontifical Mass at the Church of Marija Bambina in Naxxar on Monday morning, marking the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The service was attended by many, including Members of Parliament and President Myriam Spiteri Debono. The mass reflected on Mary’s birth as a symbol of hope, divine guidance, and the enduring role of faith in Malta’s history and daily life.
The Archbishop began by emphasizing the significance of the feast, reminding the faithful of the understanding of their forefathers in choosing to celebrate the birth of Mary.
He drew connections to the ancient traditions of the Levant, highlighting how the feast was meditated upon by early Christians, who saw in Mary’s birth the dawning of the “sun of justice,” a light heralding hope and salvation.
Scicluna spoke of the joy and promise in Mary’s birth, reflecting on her parents, Anna and Joachim, as humble yet strong figures chosen by God.
Through their devotion, Scicluna said that Jesus, the Son of God, is the fruit of Mary’s blessed womb, and that Mary herself embodies both blessing and intercession for humanity.
Scicluna explained that the liturgical year traditionally begins with this solemn feast, celebrating the commencement of salvation through Mary’s life and example.
Speaking about Malta’s rich religious heritage, he said that the devotion to Mary is deeply rooted in local churches and ancient parishes, tracing a continuity that connects the island to Jerusalem and Eastern Christian traditions.
Scicluna referenced the “Stella Maris” – the Star of the Sea – saying that Mary is represented as a guiding light and protector, whose care is likened to a drop of the ocean nurturing all creation.
He said that this symbolic connection reinforces Mary’s role as both guardian and inspiration, illuminating the path for believers in their daily lives.
Scicluna then turned to Malta’s historical experiences, recalling three significant victories where divine guidance and cooperation were vital.
“As we celebrate our victories and responsibilities, we must remain instruments of solidarity and hope for the future,” he said, urging the faithful to act with humility and generosity in daily life.
From the Great Siege of 1565 to other moments of national importance, he said that while the Maltese have achieved much, these victories were made possible through humility, solidarity, and international support.
These historical lessons, he said, remain relevant as citizens navigate modern challenges.
Addressing contemporary society, Scicluna warned against the dangers of greed, substance abuse, and dependence on the virtual world, saying that true freedom and quality of life are achieved through moderation, moral responsibility, and care for others.
He called on all to cultivate joy and gratitude without harming neighbours or the environment.
Throughout his homily, the Archbishop repeatedly spoke of the intercession of Mary, celebrating her as a symbol of purity, humility, and protection.
He described her as a safe haven for the Maltese people, a guiding star whose grace reflects the sweetness and steadfastness of the island itself.
Scicluna urged the faithful to embrace Mary’s virtues, drawing inspiration from her life to live with compassion, humility, and a commitment to the common good.
“I ask you to watch over this beautiful land, for it is a land of a gentle heart; you too are our protector, our true victory, the drop of the ocean, the star of the sea, Stella Maris. Marija Bambina, be the one who guides us. Long live Marija Bambina!” Scicluna concluded.