Along with the majority of Catholics in Malta in March of last year, I had that joyful feeling following the appointment of Archbishop Charles Scicluna in March of last year. This coincided with the celebration of the year of mercy which commenced towards the end of December, 2015.

Lately, I learnt that Patri Adrian Cachia made the news headlines. I was annoyed! I know Patri Adrian to be a devoted priest with strong principles. The soldier on the front line! It sounds weird to exclude him from administering the sacraments and dismissing him from the Order when we know of clergy men who committed grave offences.

This seems like a similar situation where the Church is seemingly saving face once again and crucifying another of its lambs.

I ponder and ask myself: is this the same Church that has a declining attendance? Like most true Maltese Christians, I must not fail to encourage and feel confident about our Archbishop’s efforts giving a fresh boost to the Church and being more open-minded. But I ask: Is this justice? Is this mercy?

Sorry, I see no mercy or absolution. Do you?

 

Raymond Sammut