Malta Day 2014

Written by Janet Barkway

Malta Day - UK 2014 at Westminster Cathedral Is always well attended but this year it could easily have been standing room only! Whilst waiting on the steps to the Cathedral imagine our surprise as Her Excellency Marie- Louise Coleriro Preca , her Consort Mr Preca and His Excellency Norman Hamilton High Commissioner of Malta to Great Britain and Northern Ireland, came over and introduced themselves. Also attending and representing George Cross Island Association was Alex Saint and Barry Wenman, and soon to be members Maltese born Charles Le -Brun and Varian Tant

Inside the cathedral the service was led by His Eminence Cardinal Prosperous Grech. The Amimea gospel Choir of Malta were resplendent in colourful cloaks of pink,orange,purple and turquoise with black sequin edging, their voices were sensational ,and their repertoire included "All things are Possible" and "Grateful".

Our host H.E. Mr Norman Hamilton, now in his second year of office, in his welcome said he was humbled and touched to be here, in this the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence George Cross Island association veteran, Jack McNulty read one of the bidding prayers.

The President was asked to address the congregation at the end of the Mass and it was clearly apparent that she was quite emotional; she asked to be put on record that her visit to London and the Cathedral was the most wonderful and moving experience. Her warmth was extended to the Maltese currently in London receiving medical treatment, to the many young people at the service, and that they must return to their roots in Malta, where she would open the San Anton Palace gardens along with her husband for them.

At the end of the service the Maltese flocked to her, and still she found time to talk, hug, cry and be part of a fabulous photo call with the Gospel Choir. I introduced her to "our Jack", (JackMcNulty), and graciously she came across with her escort and the H C. and chatted for quite some while. Eventually they managed to proceed outside for the very noisy and smokey fireworks.

What a day , what an anniversary and what a President .