Graduands flock to St John's to mark end of studies

Such was the turnout for a Thanksgiving Mass at St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta yesterday that not all graduands could fit in the church and quite a few had no alternative but to remain on the parvis.

Mass for the 2,000 or so university graduates was celebrated by Archbishop Joseph Mercieca. The first batch received their degrees yesterday and similar ceremonies will be held daily next week.

During the homily, the Archbishop said God had blessed those present with talents and courage to continue their studies to the end. It was a moment of joy not just for the graduates but for their parents, friends and family who had supported them throughout.

Mgr Mercieca said the university had an important role to play in society. It was a laboratory of life which was not just a fountain of knowledge for students but served a specific purpose: the holistic formation of the human person.

He said the people held academics and graduates in high regard and this put great responsibility on professionals.

President Eddie Fenech Adami headed the congregation which included Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and Education Minister Louis Galea.