A unique art exhibition featuring paintings by Ukrainian children was unveiled yesterday at the Milied Mellieħi 2024 event, held by the Mellieħa Local Council. Running from December 21 to 24, the exhibition, titled “Il-Mellieħa qalb waħda mat-tfal Ukreni” (Mellieħa United with Ukrainian Children), showcases a collection of vibrant scenes, each conveying messages of peace and opposing war.

The paintings were brought to Malta through the efforts of MP Robert Cutajar, who coordinated the initiative alongside the Mellieħa Local Council and the Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Malta. The works were displayed under a specially erected tent in the Mellieħa Square.

The exhibition was inaugurated by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Ian Borg, who expressed Malta’s strong bond with Ukraine and its people. He also extended his gratitude to the Maltese public for their ongoing support. Funds raised from the sale of the artworks will be donated to Ukrainian children in need, with the Minister encouraging attendees to reflect on the profound impact of their contributions, while taking pride in supporting the children affected by the ongoing conflict.

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Malta’s highest authorities gathered at several venues in Valletta for the exchange of Christmas and New Year greetings. The President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, hosted her first official event at the Grandmaster’s Palace, where she, along with her husband, welcomed Prime Minister Robert Abela, his wife Lydia Abela, and the Cabinet of Ministers. Also in attendance were Speaker Anglu Farrugia, Parliamentary MPs, and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech with his wife.

At the Archbishop’s Palace, Archbishop Charles Scicluna, joined by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea Curmi, welcomed the Prime Minister and top officials. In his address, the Archbishop expressed concern over the recent violence in Germany, calling for peaceful celebrations free from fear. He also highlighted the situation in Syria, urging protection for minorities’ rights and thanked the Government for its collaboration on social issues.

The Prime Minister and his family later greeted the public at the Auberge de Castille, where visitors had the chance to interact with them, take photos, and tour the halls. The event emphasized the importance of safety, unity, and solidarity during the holiday season.

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Għargħur’s Presepju Ħaj Fix-Xelter Ta’ Żmien il-Gwerra event has brought Malta’s wartime heritage to life through a living nativity scene, following the success of the Spooky Shelter event in November. Organized by the Għargħur Local Council and supported by local volunteers, the initiative showcases both historical and contemporary trades, while raising funds for the Malta Community Chest Fund.

The nativity scene features actors portraying workers from wartime Malta, alongside trades still practiced today. Visitors can witness depictions of a loom operator, fisherman, shoemaker, census taker, seller, baker (played by the son of a local baker), carpenter, washerwoman, and the holy family. This interactive scene allows the public to experience Malta’s rich cultural and historical traditions.

The event was inaugurated by a visit from the President, who commended the initiative for its contribution to preserving Malta’s history and supporting charitable causes. Through Presepju Ħaj Fix-Xelter Ta’ Żmien il-Gwerra, Għargħur’s residents and visitors are invited to celebrate the island’s heritage and contribute to a meaningful cause.

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