Archbishop Charles Scicluna said that persons in authority should not fall for the temptation to use their power to serve themselves, instead of serving others.

Addressing the faithful during the homily in the occasion of the feast of St Publius, the Archbishop said that the seven temptations which religious people and members of the clergy have to face apply to every individual. He referred to the homily made by Pope Francis during his visit in Cairo, Egypt.

Addressing persons in authority, the Archsbishop said that now is the time for everyone to shoulder their responsability and act without looking at anyone's face.

He called on poeple with power to fight the venom which introduces the temptation to use that power to serve oneself, instead of serving the people. "He who wants to be the first, must first stand behind everyone else and serve them," he said while quoting fromt he gospel.

Mons Scicluna said that another common temptation is individualism, by which a person, instead of thinking about the good of others, thinks of him/herself with no shame.

"The individualist is the reason for scandal and quarrel. These words are addressed to all of society, because the sufferign of one, is the suffering of all. In the same manner, the interest of one, should be the interest of the public."

"Where is the destination of our country? Is it profit at all costs? Do we destroy our natural habitat for the enjoyment of the few? Is this our desination?"

President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca also addressed the public on the ocassion of St Publius feast in Floriana. She said that the Maltese should rise above the mudslinging of local politics regardless of when an election is held. She urged the public to remain united during this time of political tension.