Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem ends with visit by Three Wise Men
Symbolic journey included stops at various localities across Malta and Gozo
On Sunday afternoon, in keeping with tradition, the Three Wise Men concluded their symbolic journey at Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem. The journey, spread over two days, included several stops in various localities across Malta and Gozo.
The first stop was at the Mosta Basilica, followed by visits to St Dominic’s church and the collegiate church of St Lawrence in Vittoriosa.
The third stop was at Mater Dei Hospital, where the Magi visited the children’s wards as well as Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre, sharing moments of hope and solidarity with patients and their families, while the fourth and final stop on Saturday evening took place at the Little Sisters of the Poor home for the elderly and at the church of the Immaculate Conception in Ħamrun.
The journey continued on Sunday morning with a visit to Mġarr parish church, followed by a stop at Dar il-Madonna tal-Mellieħa, a home for the elderly.
The Magi then proceeded to the village square, where the traditional encounter with King Herod took place. From there, they travelled to Gozo, where in Għajnsielem, the Magi visited Dar San Ġużepp and Dar Arka. They then made their way to the parish church square, Pjazza Madonna Ta’ Loreto, where they were welcomed by archpriest Joseph Hili.
The triumphant entrance into Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem took place shortly before 4pm. The Magi paid homage to the Infant Jesus in the grotto of the Nativity and presented Him with their gifts.
This year, children were invited to write messages of encouragement, solidarity and peace, reflecting on war or other social themes. These messages will be delivered to Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican.