A foretaste of what is to come out of the restoration process for village feasts has been offered at the feast of Santa Marija in Victoria, Gozo for the past three years.

Leaving the rivalry between the two parishes of Victoria aside (this is not triggered by the feast), it has become obvious that the clergy wishes to leave its mark and ‘regain’ lost terrain during these manifestations. This has become clearly evident in the introduction of a Eucharistic benediction for all in front of the Cathedral before the statue is taken inside the church. Those present, Catholics and non-Catholics alike, remain there awaiting some climax to come but nothing happens except for an assertion of priestly functional powers.

We all have to admit that outdoor feast committees have made inroads in spheres that 50 years ago were the sole domain of parish priests. This development has served the Church well. It enhanced ownership and assisted the Church come nearer to the people.

Moreover the spontaneous expressions of joy seem to suggest that Mary of Nazareth and the patron saints at other feasts belong to the people. Spectators among this emotional and intimate overflow get the impression that Mary hails directly from Ballija, a suburb of Victoria itself. This acceptance of the saints is unique to Malta and Gozo. Common people sense that God has singled out ordinary individuals to make his presence felt among us and if this is no source for rejoicing Christians, what better source could we get in our mundane life? In Victoria ordinary people rejoice with the local nuns clapping and dancing after singing the Salve Regina at Palm Street. What’s there to be restored?

There might be some excesses in this spontaneity but these could be addressed in a more appropriate and mature form by offering targeted assistance to those who fall victim to these excesses. We all have to bear in mind that there is no shortcut for ‘reforming’ feasts except through a gradual process of teaching and engaging the laity at all levels. The clergy is better advised to learn from the message that ordinary people are ‘living’ during their village feasts.

Agnes Debono

Kercem