After three months of hard work,
the dream of several volunteers finally became a reality
because on Sunday evening, at 4.45pm, 'Bethlehem f'
Ghajnsielem' was officially opened by the Hon. Prime
Minister Lawrence Gonzi.
Mayor Francis Cauchi and project
manager Franco Ciangura then accompanied the Prime Minister
and Mrs. Kate Gonzi around the nativity village with the
first stop was at the Inn where they had the opportunity to
go on the rooftop to enjoy the panoramic views of 'Ta Passi'
fields.
Frank and Lorietta Buttigieg
then
greeted the dignitaries at the bakery. This year, the
carpenter house was again animated by Karmnu Xuereb 's
family while the nearby blacksmith which this year featured
a watermill was animated by Guzi Mallia and Frans Buttigieg.
The Prime Minister then visited the shepherd's cave and
headed to the the market where the Franciscan community
headed by Fra Lorry was selling natural fruits, and
vegetables. The final stop was at the grotto where baby
Jesus was born.
Mayor Francis Cauchi then
invited the Hon. Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi to make a
short speech for the occasion. Dr.
Lawrence Gonzi
was visibly impressed
with the new features and attractions that the 2nd edition
of 'Bethlehem f' Ghajnsielem' offered. He augured that this
village will be a place of unity for all the families and
urged the present media to promote this unique event.