President Emeritus Eddie Fenech Adami, and his son Beppe, had the opportunity to meet Pope Francis at the chapel of Santa Marta, in the Pope’s residence.

The two attended a daily mass alongside a small group of people, and later had the opportunity to meet with the Pope himself.

In comments to this newsroom, Beppe Fenech Adami said he was impressed with the lack of informality Pope Francis has. “The lack of ceremony with which he leads the Vatican is remarkable. You feel very much at ease in his presence. Of course, it is not only his humbleness that’s inspiring, but also his sense of knowledge. He asked us about Malta, and we also suggested he should visit in the near future. Inevitably, the conversation also fell on personal issues. ”

Last year, the PN’s deputy leader underwent 33 sessions of chemotherapy and a major operation, after he was diagnosed with a 15cm tumour in his shoulder blade. He is now recovering gradually.

President Emeritus Eddie Fenech Adami will be turning 81 next week.