Newly appointed Gozo Bishop Mario Grech yesterday started an official 3-day pastoral visit in Ghajnsielem. The visit is of a pastoral, liturgical, cultural and social nature which will take place in the church, the Parish Centre, the homes, the organizations and the streets of Ghajnsielem. Mgr Grech was greeted by hundreds of people who gathered in the main square awaiting for his arrival.

The 20th of February also happened to be Mgr Grech's 49th birthday and to celebrate this occasion Archpriest Can Joseph Zerafa presented him with a Silver Icon showing the Virgin Mary with Jesus Christ.

Mgr Grech and his assistant Fr Eddie Zammit later visited the Parish Center where they held a meeting with all the parochial organizations. Many took the opportunity to speak with the bishop who, typically, stopped, shook hands and conversed with them.

His official program of activities include several home visits primarily to the sick and the elderly confined to their homes. He is also expected to visit the St Joseph Band Club, Ghajnsielem. Football Club and L' Ghaqda tal-Armar on Tuesday evening.