Update 3: Fr. John Abela laid to rest

(Adds Provincial thanks) This morning, the 24^th December, Fr John Abela was laid to rest. At 9.30am, the funeral cortége proceeded from St. Mary of Jesus Friary [ta’ Ġieżu] Rabat where a requiem Mass presente cadavare was celebrated and followed by interment at the ‘Santa Maria Addolorta Cemetery’. The church was packed with priests, religious members belonging to the Franciscan Family, family members, many friends, together with members from the theatrical sector which included members of the group ‘SKENE’ from Luqa.

Holy Mass was concelebrated by the Provincial Minister together with Fr Francis Walter, who is the General Definator representing the Minister General of the Franciscan Order. During the celebration of the Eucharist, the Provincial Minister, Fr Sandro Overend, outlined the life of Fr John, mentioning mainly the numerous scripts he wrote, his work in the Holy land, and his work in Information Technology.

After Mass, members of the group SKENE read some reflections about their ‘Putri’ as they referred to him in a friendly manner – reflections which touched the hearts of those present. It was an emotional moment.

The songs sung during the Celebration of the Eucharist were written by Fr John himself for the various plays which he had written and which were sung by the members of the SKENE group themselves. At the very end of the celebration a Christmas song was sung by the church choir – a Christmas song which Fr John had written some thirty years ago.

We entrust his soul to the Lord and keep him in our prayers that he may rest in peace.

The Minister Provincial, Fr. Sandro Overend, OFM and all the Friars of the Franciscan Province of St. Paul the Apostle in Malta, would like to thank all those who showed sympathy through their prayers, Tv programmes, media communications, appreciations and messages including e-mails, on the passing away of Fr. John Abela OFM – RIP.