Parish priests from across Malta came together for their annual live-in meeting this weekend, held under the theme "The Parish: Today and Tomorrow", which was explored through discussions led by various invited speakers.
Fr Karm Farrugia, parish priest of Balzan, spoke about his 43 years of experience as a parish priest and outlined what he believes to be the key priorities facing parish clergy today. Fr Joseph Hili, parish priest of Għajnsielem in Gozo, shared his experience as part of a team of priests responsible for seven parishes within the Archdiocese of Milan in Italy. The priests also heard from Fr Colin Rothery, who has served as parish priest in several parishes in Ireland.
Time was also dedicated to discussion on the new pastoral plan currently being prepared by the Archdiocese of Malta. This session was led by the Episcopal Vicar for Pastoral Coordination, Fr Andre Zaffarese. Another speaker, Chris Delicata, offered his perspective on the state of parishes, highlighting both positive aspects and areas where further development is needed.
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi, who spent the three-day live-in with the priests, encouraged them not only to recognise the challenges within their parishes but also to acknowledge and build upon the positive work already being carried out, and to share these experiences with others. He also stressed the need for renewal in catechesis and for a more integrated approach that brings together the proclamation of the Word, the celebration of the liturgy, diakonia, and community-building that looks beyond itself and embraces its mission. He noted that these four dimensions of Church life are sometimes treated separately, when in fact one should naturally lead to the other.
Bishop Galea-Curmi also urged parish priests to ensure that the councils they form part of, including parish pastoral councils, clearly understand their purpose and that this objective is shared by all participants, in order to reduce frustration and encourage meaningful contribution.
In his concluding remarks, Bishop Galea-Curmi emphasised that both he and the Archbishop remain available to offer support, particularly in sensitive situations.
During the afternoon sessions, the parish priests took part in a number of working groups, meeting in small groups to discuss the topics presented earlier in the day.
The annual live-in for parish priests is held in January, after the Christmas celebrations and before the start of Lent, providing three days of quiet reflection and discussion on themes affecting parish life. The event is organised by the Council of the College of Parish Priests.