I will try to depict just an outline of one of the most popular and loved figures in Malta - one of the most humane, humble, affable, approachable and charismatic personalities who has ever graced our small nation: the outgoing Archbishop Mgr. Paul Cremona O.P.
His infectious smile was an invitation in itself for people from all walks of life to feel 'at home' with him ... to share and open up their hearts to an understanding Big Brother! At the beginning of his ordination back on 26 January, 2007 he had set out to build bridges ... and with God's help, he had managed to build several of them over his seven years and nine months at the helm!
His Pastoral visits to all the parishes on the island were an innovation that brought him closer to all members of the Church. He was a man of the people. He loved being with them. He loved loving them! I am sure that there are many individuals and families out there who had wonderful close encounters with him, and who would have their own story to relate. It is a known fact that people used to wait on his doorstep in Attard in the early morning hours to be allowed in and to discuss important matters with him ... and Mgr. Cremona would find time for everybody. His wise advice would emanate from a heart that sincerely cared. He would never say NO when a YES could help! He would even gladly disclose his mobile number to his sheep, such was his desire to remain close to his flock.
In my lifetime, I have always known certain distinguished ecclesiastical ranks to retain a firm stand, high up on a pedestal in a nearly impenetrable niche. We ordinary mortals had to look up to try and catch a glimpse of them. But with Mgr Cremona, the task of interacting wasn't that hard. One could literally look horizontally - face to face - and discuss anything with him. He certainly didn't belong to today's modern trend of 'selfies', because his attention was always relentlessly focused on others.
Throughout his time at the spiritual helm, the toughest of challenges had come along - the introduction of divorce, same-sex marriage, paedophilia by certain members of the clergy, amongst others.
These issues must have started pulling the carpet from under his feet, since, apart from having to face the fierce winds of change from outside, he may also have had to deal with greater defying adversities from within that started burrowing slowly into his whole being. I am sure this must have had an effect on his health issues that came about some two years ago.
Had the latest unfair remarks not been made public in the newspapers, and had those responsible instead resorted to a frank and fraternal dialogue in the parlour of his house before rushing to print, Mgr Cremona may have opted to stay longer in office. But alas, the latest poking comments on his leadership must have obliterated all precious possibilities for him to have second thoughts on his decision to tender his resignation. They helped accelerate the final countdown ... to Malta's great loss!
It takes a man of great strength to find the courage to step down, just as Pope Benedict XVI did when the time had come. Papa Francesco himself declared that he would be ready to follow in his predecessor's footsteps if his health were to begin undermining his leadership.
Thanks a million dear Mgr Cremona for the nearly eight wonderful years in which you loyally sacrificed for your flock. Throughout that time, you certainly managed to build the greatest 'state of the art' bridge, because you managed to bring the Archbishop closer to the people, and the people closer to the Archbishop, as had never been done before!
Our prayers will accompany you forever ... especially because we have no doubt that your holy mission towards your brethren will not stop here.
Jana Vukovic
Sliema