LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltese political and religious leaders have extended heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV following his historic election on Thursday, expressing admiration for his message of peace and his long-standing connection to Malta through the Augustinian order.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was warmly applauded for his appointment by the Government of Malta, which described him as a “steadfast voice for peace” in a time of global instability. In an official statement, the government expressed confidence in further strengthening the “longstanding and valued relationship between Malta and the Vatican City State” throughout his pontificate.
President Myriam Spiteri Debono also joined in the national sentiment, acknowledging the newly elected pontiff’s emphasis on peace and drawing attention to his symbolic choice of name. “One recollects the impetus that his predecessor Pope Leo XIII imparted to the social teaching of the Church,” she remarked, underscoring the significance of continuity in moral leadership.
Leader of the Opposition Bernard Grech highlighted the global Catholic community’s sense of joy, stating, “May this Pontificate bear much-needed fruit in a world of conflict, while bringing with it new hope, mercy, unity and peace for all those who seek the help and light of the Church.”
The Archdiocese of Malta expressed deep joy at the appointment, interpreting the choice of papal name as a guiding sign for the Church’s future. “This chosen name sheds light on the direction in which he will be accompanying the Christian community… in the footsteps of Saint Leo the Great,” the archdiocese stated, calling for prayers that the Holy Spirit may guide the new pontiff in his mission.
A particularly strong sense of pride and connection was felt by the Augustinian Province of Malta, as Pope Leo XIV becomes the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to ascend to the papacy. The province recalled his frequent visits to the island nation, especially during his tenure as Prior General of the order between 2001 and 2013.
“Between 2001 and 2013, he visited Malta on multiple occasions to preside over provincial chapters and to make canonical visits to Augustinian friars as well as Augustinian sisters,” said Fr Leslie Gatt, provincial of the Maltese Augustinians. He emphasized that even beyond his leadership role, Pope Leo XIV had “maintained contact and a close relationship with several Maltese Augustinian brothers.”
The most recent of these visits occurred in November 2023, when then-Cardinal Prevost participated in the Plenary Assembly of the Council of the Conferences of European Bishops, hosted by the Maltese Episcopal Conference. During that visit, he celebrated Mass at the iconic Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady in Mosta.
-Photo Arcidiocesi di Malta-
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