Archbishop Charles Scicluna today gave his approval to the Mosta Parish to initiate proceedings to turn the rotunda into a basilica. The term basilica usually refers specifically to large and important churches that have been given special ceremonial rights by the Pope.

Delivering a panegyric during mass at the Mosta church on the occasion of the feast of the Assumption, Archbishop Scicluna received a round of applause when he announced that he will celebrating the Santa Marija mass at Mosta every year.

“From now on my Santa Marija Cathedral will be here in Mosta,” he told a packed church. It is not usual for people to applaud during a panegyric but the news was greatly welcomed by his audience.

After the homily, Mosta Archpriest Dun Albert Buhagiar asked the Arcbishop if he would gave his approval to the Mosta parish to apply for the status of basilica. Mgr Scicluna gave his go ahead there and then. "You have the go-ahead from the Archbishop, let's hope the Pope agrees as well."

(Go to 02.05.00 for the announcement.)

It was explained to this newsroom that the parish has to launch a formal process but can now do so with the approval of the head of the Church in Malta.

In the meantime, Mgr. Scicluna also referred to the proposed legislation to decriminalize the vilification of religion and insisted that “just because we have freedom of expression does not mean that we can silence Christ.”

“If this means that we can insult those who believe it also means that we can offend the dignity of people. If Parliament will do whatever it wants we will do our own thing.”

He also appealed to those who are willing to “defend wooden statues” to also defend the humanity of man. “It is good that everyone can speak and we appreciate each other’s opinions but this does not mean that we should be free to insult one another.”

He said that if the Holy Mary will not be protected by the law, “we will protect her.”