Five Friars working in our Libya Mission have just ended their yearly On-going Formation in week in Malta, organised between the 13th and 20th of February. Participating in this week were Friars Allan Arrabuche OFM (From the Philippines – Guardian of our Tripoli Friary and Vicar General), Magdy Helmy OFM (From Egypt – Economo of our Tripoli Friary), Alan Castillo OFM (From the Philippines – Guardian of our Benghasi Friary), Ragheb Marzouk OFM (From Egypt – Benghasi Friary) and Virgilio Patulski OFM (From Poland – Parish Priest of Tobruk).

The theme chosen for this year was ‘The Missionary Identity of the Priest’. Amongst other talks the Friars were enriched by talks given by Rev. Fr. Sandro Vella O.Carm (Mission in the Old Testament – Carmelite Friary Mdina), Rev. Dr. Paul Sciberras (Mission in the Synoptic Gospels – Porziuncola Retreat House), Rev. Dr. Martin Micallef OFMCap (Mission in the Gospel of John – Capuchin Friary Floriana) and Friar Marcello Ghirlando OFM (Mission in Saint Paul). The last talk was coloured by a visit to Saint Paul’s Bay and the Grotto of Saint Paul in Rabat. Friar George Aquilina OFM also spoke to the Friars on the History of the Franciscan Mission in Libya.

The Friars working in Libya were stationed in our Valletta Friary were they were welcomed on the first day and participated in Vespers and Lectio Divina with the local fraternity. They also had the occasion to visit the Friars in our Baħar iċ-Cagħaq, Rabat and Sliema Fraternities. The week also included a visit to the Poor Clares in Saint Julians where they recounted and shared their experiences in Libya with the sisters.

The Friars where invited twice by the Apostolic Nuncio Mons. Tommaso Caputo, for lunch and supper.

The On-going Formation week was organised by Friar Marcello Ghirlando OFM, Secretary for Formation and Studies and Provincial Delegate for our Libya Mission.

Planning the On-going Formation week for next year has instilled the great desire of living it in the Holy Land.