Divine Mercy Sanctuary, Naxxar, commemorates ninth anniversary of consecration
Every symbol and sculpture ‘invites the faithful into relationship of grace’
On the anniversary of the consecration of the Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Naxxar, we remember its introduction as a sacred space built on welcome, trust and prayer.
Above the main door stands the statue of the welcoming Christ made of bronze weighing 380kg, His arms opened wide in blessing. Positioned outside, he greets every visitor before they even cross the threshold, embracing all who approach the church in search of peace, hope or renewal.
The welcoming Christ greets visitors even before they cross the church threshold.
A close-up of the face of the statue.
The bronze statue of the welcoming Christ weighs 380kg.
The statue of the welcoming Christ stands above the main door of the Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Naxxar.
On the main door itself, the two handprints invite each person to enter with openness, placing themselves into Christ’s care. This is the faithful stepping willingly into a space of grace and mercy.
On the main door, two handprints constantly invite people to enter the sanctuary.
Across the bottom of the main door is the inscription ‘Jiena nafda fik’ (I trust in you).
The inscription ‘Jiena nafda fik’ (I trust in you) deepens this invitation, encouraging all who enter to surrender their worries and place their trust entirely in the Lord.
Completing the message at the entrance are the four sculpted crosses, each with embossed fingers that express the dialogue of prayer. Two fingers rise upward as a symbol of our prayers lifted to God, while three fingers point downward in a sign of His answer– His mercy descending upon His people.
Also at the entrance are the four sculpted crosses, each with embossed fingers, symbolising the dialogue of prayer.
Archbishop Charles Scicluna seen during the mass consecrating the church in 2016.Nine years on, the sanctuary remains a beacon of Divine Mercy, where every gesture, symbol and sculpture invites the faithful into a relationship of grace. The church was consecrated in 2016 by Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the late archbishop Paul Cremona, Can. David Gauci and Can. Michael Agius, who has been faithfully serving as rector since its consecration.
Every sculpture was thoughtfully conceived and expertly crafted by Austin Camilleri, who is known for his modern sacred art.