The subject of the 147th edition of Madonna Ta’ Pinu, a quarterly published by the Ta’ Pinu Publications of Gharb, Gozo, analyses the Christian meaning of the term “Sanctuary.”

Mgr Lawrenz Sciberras opens with a biblical exposition of the Jewish Temple, while Fr Anton Farrugia OFM writes on the Dedication rite of a church. The patristic reflections of Mgr Carmelo Refalo include the writings of St Ambrose on the Virgin Mary as the “new Temple.” Last but not least, Fr Gerard Buhagiar gives us a theological explanation in his studied article Ghaliex is-Santwarju?

The same edition includes a commentary by Godwin Cutajar on the restoration project of Emvin Cremona’s paintings at Ta’ Pinu, which are featuring in the 2009 BOV calendar. The Bank of Valletta is the main sponsor for the great project. The editorial board has also included in this number the historic message delivered by rector Mgr Guzeppi Portelli on 13 December 1931, when the new building of the basilica was blessed. Portelli is remembered to day as one of the main benefactors of the Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary.

Among other series in Madonna Ta’ Pinu one finds Mgr Tonino Bello’s Hsibijiet Marjani, Mgr Nicholas J. Cauchi’s reflection on Marian prayers, the children’s page in full colour, and Bernard Häring’s meditation taken from his book The Song of the Servant. This time the shrine’s diary, found in the last few pages, is longer than usual, since it includes many activities related to the 125th anniversary of Our Lady’s Call, an event which attracted many pilgrims to the national sanctuary.

Subscriptions in Madonna Ta’ Pinu are available for €6 from the Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Gharb, Gozo, tel: 21 556 187.