This anniversary was celebrated by a Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral in the presence of a number of priests, bishops and laymen.

In his speech, Mgr Mercieca spoke about the mission of a priest, saying that after accepting the ordination as priests, these men dedicate their whole life to God and were therefore priests 24 hours a day.

He said he feels proud when he sees priests who give up their profession to dedicate more time to their mission. On the other hand, he said he is disappointed and let down when he sees priests who, without authorisation, dedicate so much time and energy to activities which are completely outside their mission as priests. Those priests who decide to give up their mission for social or political activities will be in the wrong, he said. Mgr Mercieca thanked all those people who have supported him throughout his time as bishop and also as Archbishop.