In the dictionary, a sanctuary is described as “A haven, a place of protection and peace”. This is the feeling one gets when entering the sanctuary of Divine Mercy in San Pawl tat-Targa. Look beyond the concrete floors and the presbytery steps and into beautiful compassionate eyes of the Titular painting of Jesus Divine Mercy, welcoming us into the House of His Father, and you know that you have come to the right place!

The Titular painting, which is the work of the accomplished artist Luciano Micallef, was recently unveiled at the sanctuary by the Rector of the pastoral area, the Rev. Michael Agius and the President Emeritus Prof. Guido de Marco.

This month sees the start of the tiling of the floor of the sanctuary – this is the first of many things that still need to be done. Fr Michael works tirelessly to ensure the completion of the sanctuary but he needs help. The costs are tremendous so any help would be welcome and appreciated.

The fact that the sanctuary is not yet finished has not discouraged Fr Michael at all, and the Masses are regularly being celebrated. A Mass in Maltese is said at 7.15pm on Saturday and another in English on Sunday at 11.30am. I encourage everyone to attend one of the Masses in the sanctuary. Here you will be able to see the powerful Titular Image of Jesus Divine Mercy still clutching His cross. Seemingly coming towards you and perhaps, like myself, you may start to understand the loving message of the Divine Mercy to us all.

Donations can be sent by post to; Santwarju Gesu Hniena Divina, Triq Santa Marija, San Pawl tat-Targa NXR 1400 or alternately paid into BOV account number: 400 1633 9848.

All donations will be gratefully acknowledged by Fr Michael personally.

Mary Ann Thake

Birkirkara