13-YEAR-OLD OLIWIA WOJNOWSKA LAID TO REST AT POLISH CHURCH

Oliwia Wojnowska, the 13-year-old Polish girl who tragically lost her life after being swept out to sea at Ċirkewwa, has been laid to rest in her hometown in Poland.

According to Polish news outlet Super Express, Oliwia’s funeral took place on Saturday afternoon and drew large crowds of mourners, reflecting the deep impact her death has had on the local community. The funeral Mass was held at 1pm at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Magdalence, after which she was buried at the parish cemetery.

The church was filled to capacity, with many mourners forced to remain outside due to lack of space. Those in attendance paid their respects in silence and reflection, as a carpet of white flowers lined the church aisle during the service. The priest who led the Mass spoke of the profound sorrow felt by Oliwia’s family and all those who knew her, while also reflecting on Christian beliefs surrounding death and hope of reunion.

Oliwia died in January while on holiday in Malta with her family. She was standing on the pavement behind railings near Ċirkewwa’s south quay, watching rough seas late on a Monday afternoon, when a powerful wave swept her into the water. The same wave pinned her father, 49, and her 17-year-old brother against a wall. Her father was injured while attempting to reach her and was later treated at Mater Dei Hospital. Oliwia’s body was found following a multi-day search operation.

The tragedy has deeply shaken her hometown. John Paul II Primary School in Łazy and the mayor of the Lesznowola commune both expressed their condolences, describing the loss as devastating and acknowledging the difficult period of mourning faced by the family and the wider school community.

#MaltaDaily