The Franciscan Sisters of the Heart of Jesus held a thanksgiving Mass after their foundress, Mother Margherita was declared venerable. It was held in Kerċem, her birthplace.
The Mass was presided over by Gozo bishop Mario Grech, Apostolic Nuncio Aldo Cavalli, Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna, Postulator of the Cause Fr Giovann Giuseppe Califano and a large number of priests.
Present for the ceremony were President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and Mr Preca, Gozo Minister Anton Refalo and Mrs Refalo, numerous Franciscan sisters, lay members of the Association of the Stars of the Heart of Jesus and a large congregation of lay people.
Califano spoke about the process of the cause and the decree signed by Pope Francis on January 27 declaring Mother Margherita venerable.
In his sermon, Grech spoke about the joy and peace everyone seeks to possess. He said God called every Christian to holiness and that Mother Margherita was a model for those who desire to live a holy life.