The feast of St John Bosco was celebrated in Victoria recently. Gozo Bishop Mario Grech celebrated Mass at the Don Bosco Oratory chapel in the morning with the participation of the Chorus Urbanus under the directon of Mro. John Galea.

The Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi and his wife Kate, the Gozo Minister, Giovanna Debono, the Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Chris Said, Frederick Azzopardi M.P., and the Victoria Mayor Robert Tabone were also present for the concelebrated mass.

The concelebrated mass was followed by a parade of horses and ponies. They left St Francis Square for St Augustine’s Square where the blessing of pets took place. The blessing of the animals was officiated by Fr George Mercieca.

Saint George’s parish priest Mgr. Paul Cardona led a solemn Mass late in the afternoon, followed by a procession with the statue of St John Bosco. The La Stella Band of Victoria took part.

The Gozo Youth Wind Band and Orchestra organised the Don Bosco Grand Concert at the Don Bosco Oratory Theatre in the evening.

Photograph shows Bishop Mario Grech during the concelebrated Mass, Mgr. George Tabone is on his left. Photo by Charles Spiteri.