The General Assembly at the beginning of the social year for the Catholic Action Movement was held recently at its HQ in Victoria.

Diocesan Ecclesiastical Assistant Mgr Carmelo Hili spoke about St John M Vianney and led the opening prayers. Afterwards Diocesan President Manuel Saiba gave a programmatic talk andyoung members from various parishes performed songs.

Bishop Mario Grech led a concelebrated Mass with twelve other Assistants, animated by Bernardette Vella’s Gharb guitar group. In the homily, he emphasised the sense of service which should characterise the members’ activities. Referring to the motto “Renewed by Christ’s teaching,” he reiterated the continuous need to accept opportunities for religious and ethical formation: thus we understand which are the really positive needs.

At the end of Mass, George Cassar presented Mgr Grech with a copy of his new book of collected writings.

Outgoing General President Joyce Pullicino then introduced her successor, Mrs Carmen Agius.

The last part of the two-hour programme was a feature written and produced by Ganninu Cremona which included readings and acting, with the support of powerpoint projections by the Formosa family of Santa Lucija.

Photo: Charles Spiteri