Ghajnsielem is
today celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Loreto. This
morning Gozo Bishop Mario Grech led a pontifical
concelebrated Mass. Hundreds of people attended. Distinctive
guests were later invited for a reception.
Click here for pictures
The feast
reached its climax in the evening with the procession
around the main streets of Ghajnsielem. At 5.30pm,
Xaghra's
Victory Band played marches from Hamri Street where it
later joined the St Joseph Band at the Apparition
Square. Both marched together to the Main Square.
As the
statue of Our Lady of Loreto emerged from the main door
of the church thousands of people started clapping and
chanting 'Ave Maria'. The glitter of joy in the eyes of
the Ghajnselmizi and their sense of pride was certainly
visible. The procession started at 7.45pm. The St Joseph
Band accompanied the statue around the main streets
while the Leone Band entertained the crowds in the
main square until 10.10pm.
The
procession ended at 10.30pm. This year, the
traditional 'Kaxxa tad-Dhul' wowed the crowed as a simultaneous
number of fireworks were spectacularly displayed from
all the private roofs and club's premises which are
situated in the main square. The piazza was literally
covered in colours - it was simply one of the best shows
ever.
After the
triumphal re-entrance of the procession, the internal
festivities come to an end when Archpriest Frankie
Bajada presided over the final rendition of the
liturgical antiphon in honour of Our Lady of Loreto. He
delivered the Eucharistic Benediction to the thousands
of faithful that crowded the church. At the end of his
speech he revealed the week-long awaited surprise...
within 12 months the Ghajnselmizi will finally listen to
the tolls of its church bells.
The feast
ended with the traditional 'Marc tal-Hdax' performed by
the St Joseph Band. But after the end of this march
there was another surprise for many as a number of
bandsmen led by Assistant Director Mro. Frankie Debono
made a spontaneous dance-march around the main square
and paid short "visit" to the Band Club and the
Ghajnsielem F.C.'s premises. Although this was an
unplanned event, many were delighted to hear the 'Viva
x-Xemx' and 'Ta Gerew' for the last time. The Tolfa
delegation were so enthusiastic when they heard them
that they even joined them to chant the 'Viva ix-Xemx'
now that they have learned the lyrics by heart! This
unexpected show continued until the early morning hours.
The feast has now come
to an end. Many will certainly agree that it was
another “overwhelming” experience. One to remember.
Thanks to all and Viva l-Madonna ta' Loreto!
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