Pope Francis’ Body Carried To St Peter’s Basilica

Apr 23 2025

In a deeply moving ceremony on Wednesday morning, the body of Pope Francis was reverently carried to St Peter’s Basilica in the Rite of Translation, marking the start of final farewells to the beloved pontiff.

The solemn rite was led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, the Pope’s residence during his 12-year papacy.

Cardinal Farrell offered a prayer of gratitude for Pope Francis’s service and asked God to receive him into eternal peace.

“Let us thank the Lord for the many blessings given to the Church through Pope Francis,” he prayed. “May God now welcome him into the joy of heaven, and comfort the faithful worldwide.”

The Pope’s coffin was carried in procession by the College of Cardinals through Santa Marta Square and into St Peter’s Square, accompanied by Swiss Guards and mourners.

As the coffin reached the Basilica, soft applause broke out among the 20,000 gathered in silent tribute.

Inside, the coffin was placed before the Altar of the Confession as the choir chanted the Litany of the Saints. A brief Gospel reading and the hymn Salve Regina concluded the rite. The public may pay respects until Friday, with the Funeral Mass set for Saturday, 26 April.

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Major German Production Filming In Junior College

Apr 23 2025

The German production ‘Back to The 90s’ is currently being filmed at Malta’s very own Junior College, bringing together a crew of 129 members — 105 of whom are Maltese and Gozitan professionals.

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The film is one of six productions currently underway across the islands, reflecting the steady growth of Malta’s film industry and its skilled workforce.

The Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, accompanied by Malta’s Film Commissioner Johann Grech, visited Junior College in Msida to mark yet another momentous occasion for Malta’s film industry.

The 100-minute feature also demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability. Ahead of filming, the production pledged support for Ambjent Malta’s Tree for U campaign. As part of this initiative, 25 indigenous trees—including carob, olive, and pomegranate—were planted in the Manikata area in early April.

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Grand Harbour Lights Up As Malta Fireworks Festival Kicks Off

Apr 23 2025

The Malta International Fireworks Festival has officially kicked off, with the first spectacle at the Grand Harbour, Valletta treating spectators to a show of music and light.

The festival, now in its 24th edition, kicked off on Tuesday 22nd April, and is set to take place on the 25th and the 30th in Valletta as well as on the 27th in Nadur, Gozo.

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Following the Government of Malta’s declaration of Saturday 26th April as a national day of mourning in honour of the funeral of the late Pope Francis, the third show of the festival was moved from the 26th to 27th of April.

Each festival is set to feature a breathtaking display of colour and precision, culminating in a spectacular grand finale on the 30th.

‘Adding to the excitement, the festival also hosts a prestigious Pyrotechnical Musical competition, where fireworks are expertly choreographed to synchronise with musical compositions. The most outstanding displays will be recognised and awarded, making this an unmissable event for both locals and visitors alike.’

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Valletta Mass For Pope Francis At St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Apr 23 2025

A Mass in memory of Pope Francis was held on Tuesday evening at the historic St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, drawing a notable gathering of faithful, clergy, and local political figures.

The service, held in honour for the late Pontiff, began at 6:30 p.m. and lasted around an hour and a half, and highlighted Francis’ compassionate and progressive contributions to Christendom during his papacy.

Pope Francis died on April 21st at age 88. The Pope’s mourning period typically lasts nine days, a tradition known as “novemdiales” in the Catholic Church. The search for the new pontiff will also kick off, likely drawing millions of eyes as people wonder whom the Vatican will elect next.

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