I recall that the first time I encountered Bishop Emeritus Mgr Nicholas Joseph Cauchi was a cathedral-packed mass in New York City in 1976 at the tender age of seven.

My parents told me he was “Christ’s representative in Gozo” and I was very impressed at the time how much importance was placed on him by them, so much so that Bishop Cauchi was stamped in my memory. Thus, when my family and I moved to Gozo in 1977 and I went to the Sacred Heart Seminary in 1981 and was greeted by him on the first day at school, I had no difficulty remembering who he was.

In this reflection of my past, I must say that like me many Gozitans grew up with and only remember Bishop Cauchi. Honestly, I can say that Mgr Cauchi was always an exemplary bishop who not only did a lot of good in the diocese, but was a national voice in favour of the truth and the less privileged.

Over the years, his letters and writings reflect an intensely spiritual and intelligent person with high morals and tremendous energy. A heartfelt thanks to him for his service, initiative, example and particular voice on the national stage which happens to be relevant today more than ever before.

Dr Raymond C. Xerri

Qala, Gozo