Canon Joe Cardona marks 25th priesthood anniversary with solemn mass
Nadur celebration was well attended by parishioners, family, friends and fellow clergy
Canon Joe Cardona celebrated the 25th anniversary of his priestly ordination with a solemn concelebrated mass at the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul in Nadur – which was well attended by parishioners, family, friends and fellow clergy.
Inspired by the example of Saints Peter and Paul, whose feast the Church celebrates, prayers were offered that the Lord would continue to strengthen him in his ministry and fill him with the grace to remain a faithful witness to Christ’s love among his people. The faithful were also encouraged to open their hearts to God’s Word and to follow the example of the two great Apostles by growing in faith, hope and charity.
The homily was delivered by Mgr Carmelo Refalo, rector of Ta’ Pinu sanctuary, while Pope Leo’s Apostolic Blessing was presented by Canon Cardona’s niece, Eliza Azzopardi, and read by Nadur archpriest Krystof Buttigieg. The Scripture readings were proclaimed by Maria Lourdes Bugeja and Elena Azzopardi.
The Jubilate Deo parish choir, under the direction of Mro Antoine Theuma, took part. Canon Cardona was presented with a commemorative gift on behalf of the chapter and clergy of Nadur by Canon Carmelo Portelli.
Also present for the celebration were members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem – Malta Lieutenancy (EOHSJ Malta), led by Lieutenant Ambassador Roberto Buontempo. Canon Cardona is himself a Knight of the Order.
In addition to his ministry in Nadur, Canon Cardona serves as vice parish priest at the parish of Our Lady of Loreto in Għajnsielem and is also a chaplain at the Gozo General Hospital.