Greetings,
It is a pleasure to join you and your families once again on this Christmas day, through this message.
As you know, this is my last such message, as this Presidency is coming to an end.
During these years, apart from expressing Christmas wishes, this would also be an opportunity to share with you a few thoughts about the values that touch our lives, as individuals and as families.
Despite the atmosphere of celebration, many social appointments, and activities linked to this festive season, it is good to stop and reflect… in a short moment of gathering and pause.
In this season, many of us also look back at the challenges we have all faced in one way or another, and what we have gone through during the past year.
We certainly all face times of trouble.
Some received bad health news, some have lost loved ones, some feel lonely or have suffered social injustice, some are going through mental health issues and some maybe even isolation.
I have encountered all these in my work during the Presidency.
As and when I could, I listened and helped the sick or those going through some serious trouble in their life.
I could not do this alone.
I relied on you a lot, and you have always supported me.
Therefore, I would like to convey a particular thanks for the support you have given me, Miriam, and the administration and management of the MCCF, so that our work does not stop.
Even at the height of the Pandemic, we did everything possible not to say ‘no’ to anyone seeking our help.
As in previous years, tomorrow we will continue with this work to alleviate, as much as possible, the physical suffering of those undergoing treatment, and assist all those seeking help.
Moreover, I would also like to thank you for the encouragement that many of you gave me throughout the Presidency, to continue with the work of the Presidency in the context of various challenges.
In the numerous meetings I have had with Maltese and Gozitan people, I have always appreciated your words and gestures of support and enthusiasm, some with words of encouragement, some with a new idea, and some even with valid and valuable suggestions, even critiques.
Greetings also to the Maltese and Gozitans living abroad, and I would like to thank them for how, despite the long distances separating them from our country, they are celebrating these Holidays, maybe with some typically Maltese Christmas food, decorations, customs, and songs.
Fellow Maltese and Gozitans,
As we celebrate these holidays, I cannot help but mention that while we dwell in the shelter of our homes, surrounded by relatives and friends, thousands of people are suffering wars and are without a roof over their heads, without shelter, and facing hunger, exposed to the elements and the bombs falling on them and their children.
Thousands have become widows, or orphans… others are parents burying their children.
Many families were broken up.
This is happening in Sudan, in Ukraine, and in the Holy Land itself, the very place where the feast of the Holy Nativity that we are all celebrating today originated.
There, at this moment in time, instead of the joy of birth, hundreds of babies are losing their lives indiscriminately.
I am mentioning this because it is a shame that in today’s advanced world, we still see such heartbreaking scenes.
I am also saying this so that we all appreciate the love and comforts surrounding us.
Appreciate the beauty of peace.
And maybe also find the time to take care of those going through difficult times – even with a word of comfort and solace – which in a moment of difficulty can greatly benefit the people around us.
After all, this is the true spirit of Christmas, not material achievements.
In conclusion, my wife Miriam and I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a New Year full of happiness, unity and, above all, health.
Thank you.
Photo (OPR)
