Marsaxlokk feast expected to be called off

The external celebrations of the feast of Our Lady of Pompeii in Marsaxlokk are expected to be called off out of respect to the victims on the Simshar tragedy.

Two fishermen from Marsaxlokk have so far been confirmed dead and the search is continuing for a boy and an Ethiopian fisherman who were also on the fishing boat Simshar.

The feast was due to be held on August 3.

Comments

valerie scicluna (on 19/7/08)

Not only does the foreign fisherman have no name. he doesn't seem to have a nationality either. Is he Eritrean, Ethiopean or Somali? no one seems to know for sure. We must all start accepting and facing facts. I personally think That poor Theo is dead but I hope they find him so that he can be given a proper burial. My thoughts are with his family in this hour. Now only time will heal their wounds.

Alfred Grech (on 19/7/08)

We visit Marsaxlokk often. We always admired the serenity of the place but never thought it would end up a sad place as it did.

Not holding the external celebrations is a nice and dignified gesture. All of Malta and Gozo have felt this tragedy - definitely, the families and the Xlukkajri are feeling it more. My heart goes to all those affected and I feel very depressed about Theo - poor kid.

I invite the parishes of Malta to all say a Mass for the victims because this has been a Maltese and Gozitan unforgettable tragedy.

My condolences to the families.

John Carmel Navarro (on 19/7/08)

I pay tribute to all the fisherman who daily risk their life to satisfy our needs, at times like these one does realize how little these very brave fisherman get in return. Unfortunately to cancel the Feast would not bring them back, of course the celebrations should be toned down by excluding the fireworks. The monies of which could be the start of a fund for the relatives.

Lawrence Camilleri (on 19/7/08)

I join the grieving families and the Marsaxlokk Community in these tragic sad moments. The religious ceremonies will surely go on to honour the Madonna Ta Pompei and ask for her intercession for the souls of the departed loved ones and comfort the families in this hour. The money saved in cancelling all outdoor festivities should go to alleviate the hardship the latter are suffering. May God grant the departed ones eternal rest and may the Madonna Ta Pinu bring back miraculously the young Theo.

Denis Catania (on 19/7/08)

The feast should go on , but only in Church to honor the men, and pray for the Child to come back alive. No bands no fireworks.One miracle, one more to go.

Mario Nicchia (on 19/7/08)

Maltese join in prayers so poor Theo can be found alive.

Charles DeMicoli (on 19/7/08)

Marsaxlokk once more lost some of its sons to the sea. We are mourning for all of them. Please, dear editor, doesn't anyone know the "Ethiopian's" name by now? Can't we show this poor soul some dignity? As far as cancelling the external festivities, this should be a no brainer.

stephanie theuma (on 19/7/08)

LET'S JUST HOPE THAT THE FEAST WILL BE CALLED OFF.