Caritas Malta is inviting people who are alone or who do not have the means to spend Christmas with dignity to once again share a Christmas meal together at the Archbishop's Curia in Floriana. This lunch, now celebrating its tenth year, is a concrete expression of lived love and a tangible sign of a Church that welcomes everyone.
In a press conference held Tuesday, Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi said that the Christmas lunch organized by Caritas "is a beautiful sign of the Church's commitment in Malta throughout the whole year, especially on the precious day of Christmas, so that no one feels alone." He explained that the lunch is held at the Archbishop's Curia because it is the central place of the Archdiocese, and "at Christmas, we show where the heart of the Church in Malta lies: a heart that always beats with great love for those in need and welcomes them into its home."
The Director of Caritas Malta, Anthony Gatt, spoke about the experiences of people who express the joy this event brings them. He mentioned how one attendee told him: "Since my wife passed away, I ended up alone eating toast on Christmas, praying for the day to pass. When I joined you, I once again felt the love and joy that this beautiful day brings."
Gatt thanked the task force that meets over several weeks to make the necessary preparations for the lunch. He explained that the event would not be possible without the support of The Alfred Mizzi Foundation, which provides all the food; the President of Malta, whose kitchen prepares all the desserts distributed after the meal; and the St Peter Foundation for logistical support. He added that this year a large tent will be set up in the courtyard of the Curia, thanks to TEC Ltd and icreate, in order to increase the space as the number of attendees is expected to grow.
For another year, the food will be prepared by The Alfred Mizzi Foundation. Julian Sammut, Chairperson of the Foundation, said: "For us, Christmas and its spirit begin early with the preparation for this meal, which this year we are preparing through Vecchia Napoli. As a team, they voluntarily prepare all the food for around 600 people, including fresh vegetable soup and traditional stuffed turkey served with potatoes and vegetables." He also mentioned that around 500 meals will be delivered to the homes of those who cannot go out. In total, more than 1,000 meals will be served this year.
As in previous years, the band X-Tend will attend to entertain those taking part.
Anyone experiencing a time of loneliness or lacking the financial means to prepare a Christmas lunch is welcome to join the lunchtime meal at the Archbishop's Curia on Christmas Day by calling 79555915, emailing [email protected], or contacting the Caritas Malta Facebook page.