Bishop Cauchi decorated by the Order of Malta

The investiture was performed by Dr Alfred Caruana Galizia, Hospitalier of the Maltese Association of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM).  Dr Caruana Galizia acted as delegate of the Prince and Grand Master of the Order, HEH Fra Andrew Bertie.  It is the Grand Master in person who approves the conferment of such high honours of the Order of Malta.

Just before the actual investiture, Mgr John Dimech, principal chaplain of the Maltese Association of SMOM, said that the honour was being conferred on Mgr Cauchi in recognition of his sterling service to the diocese of Gozo and to the Maltese Association of SMOM during his long episcopate. 

Mgr Cauchi has been an honorary member of the SMOM since his ordination to the episcopate in 1967.  His coat of arms includes the crest of the Maltese Cross. 

Archpriest Mgr Joseph Farrugia concelebrated as well as Mgr John Azzopardi and the Chapter of the basilica.  At the beginning of the Mass Mgr Farrugia welcomed the members of the Order present and congratulated Bishop Cauchi.  For the large congregation attending the 11.00am Sunday Mass the many Knights of Malta wearing their distinctive robes offered an unusual spectacle.

The congregation was headed by the Maltese Ambassador to the Holy See, Chev Tonio Ganado and the Mayor of Victoria, Mr Robert Tabone, who was accompanied by Mrs Tabone.  Mr Antoine Vassallo represented the Parish Pastoral Council and Mr Dolindo Cassar represented the La Stella Philharmonic Society. 

All the dames and knights, aspirants and volunteers and other members of the Maltese Association of the SMOM who attended the annual retreat at Manresa were present. 

The two lay readings were given by members of the SMOM; Dr Paul G. Pisani read out the prayers of the faithful which were especially composed for the occasion by Mgr Farrugia.  Can. Joseph A. Borg, Major (Canadian Air Force) read out the Gospel test.  Four concelebrants distributed Holy Communion.

The Laudate Pueri Choir of the basilica sang during the impressive liturgy.  Members of the choir animated the SMOM’s annual Mass of the pilgrimage of the sick to the Ta’ Pinu shrine.

After the Mass Mgr Farrugia conducted the members of the Order on a tour of the new Parish House for priests which will be inaugurated in the near future.

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