On the night of Wednesday, April 16, the Jewish community of Malta held its annual Passover Seder at the Royal Malta Yacht Club, Manoel Island.

The Passover Seder is the ceremony of the 14 rituals which Jesus celebrated with his apostles at the Last Supper 1,970 years ago, commemorating events which happened around 1,700 years before the Christian calendar.

In this year's Seder the guests took it in turns to read about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and liberation from slavery.

An ancient miraculous event that led to 40 years of wandering of the tribes in the wilderness, long enough to erase all trauma of the slavery in Egypt and replace it with the mentality of free proud men guided by the Ten Commandments that were handed to Moses by God and carried in the Holy Ark, as a future nucleus for a temple, to the Land of Israel.

The Passover Seder is a feast of liberty and symbolism; some sages comment that it should help each person trascend individual limits and quite literally eat the bread of afflictions, the mazah, the unleavened bread, the bread of the poor and of the humble for a whole week for symbolically the Jews left Egypt with bread that had no time to rise and therefore had "no leavening which becomes bloated as it rises and symbolises self-inflated egotism and vanity..."

Because the Jews were strangers in the land of Egypt many strangers are welcome to this commemorative ritual dinner and participate in this feast of freedom.

Among the many invited guests were Fr Marius Zerafa, Dame Françoise Tempra, Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera and her husband, Dr Lawrence Scerri, Mr Laurence Grech, Marquis Anthony Buttigieg de Piro and Mr and Mrs Julius Nehorai and many from the Jewish faith of the Maltese community as well as English, Scottish German, Israeli and Iranian Jews.

A.M. Mangion Group celebrates 25 years

The A.M. Mangion Group recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with an operatic concert at the Manoel Theatre, which was held under the distinguished patronage of the President and Mrs Guido de Marco.

Soprano Miriam Gauci, together with bass Ugo Guagliardo were accompanied by the National Orchestra, conducted by Michael Laus, in an excellent performance, which will certainly be remembered by all who attended as a major cultural event.

Present for the concert were a number of distinguished guests, including the Prime Minister and Mrs Fenech Adami and a number of overseas principals, represented by the A.M. Mangion Group, who came to Malta to join in the weekend's anniversary celebrations, as well as clients and staff.

The concert was later followed by a reception, in which Alfred Mangion, chairman of the group, addressed all those present, thanking them for their support over these years. He also touched on the group's successful history in both the health care and IT fields, and its future with new opportunities arising from Malta's accession to the European Union, which the group looks forward to as a new and interesting challenge.

Professor de Marco, in his reply to Mr Mangion's speech, compared the success achieved by the A.M. Mangion Group, both in Malta and overseas, to that of other large entrepreneurial Maltese companies. He congratulated Mr Mangion, wishing him many more years of success.

MITTS Day

MITTS Ltd has recently organised the third MITTS Day, an annual activity day for the company's employees and their families, this year being held at De La Salle College, Cospicua.

As in previous years, the event was co-ordinated by the company's social committee, who took care to form ten teams of participants - Tiramisù, Angels, Apples, Apocalypse, MITTS Stars, Electronic Blue, EU Warriors, Sugar Puffs, Ground Floor Zero, Charchadon Charcharis and a team from neighbouring CIMU - who put wits and muscles against each for activities such as balloon games and the highly awaited tug-of-war. This year's winning team was the MITTS Stars, led by their captain Albert Bonnici.

The day was also relaxing for the employees' children, who were kept busy with a programme of activities. The event came to an end with a presentation of a trophy and medals to the winning team.

Spinnaker gets bigger

The third issue of Spinnaker, the official magazine of the Royal Malta Yacht Club, will be out in June.

Following the success of the previous two, this issue will be introducing new and exciting features will make the publication a winner with all boating and yachting people.

Regulars, like local and foreign sailing news as well as all RMYC related news, are a constant feature, while new features include specialised readership features and boat reviews, a detailed brokerage section containing a selection of boats and yachts for sale from leading outlets, and buyer's choice and lifestyle features on products such as marine leisure wear, deck shoes and safety equipment.

Spinnaker's production team have embraked on an improved distribution system - Spinnaker issues will now be hand-distributed to each and every boat or yacht berthed in all the local marinas. Moreover all RMYC members will receive their personal copy at home, and other copies will also be readily available at leading marine outlets.

From next month, Spinnaker will also go online on www.rmyc.org with all the articles and photos, easily viewable in PDF format. A special advertisers' list with links to official Websites and e-mails will also be included.

Pioneer of University's French department honoured

Dr Lawrence Seychell, former head of the French Department within the Faculty of Arts of the University of Malta, on April 30 was honoured with the title of Chevalier des Palmes Acadé- miques by the French government.

The investiture ceremony was conducted by French Ambassador Patrick Chrismant at his official residence in Zebbug. Also present were the cultural attaché, Anne Lewis-Loubignac, other embassy staff, Mrs Seychell and their two children Etienne-Michel and Arlette, the current Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Dominic Fenech, the current Head of the French Department, Chev. Dr Carmen Depasquale, as well as colleagues and friends from the Department of Education.

In a speech before the investiture which he gave partly in French and partly in Maltese, the French Ambassador traced Dr Seychell's brilliant academic career.

He said that, at the young age of 27, Dr Seychell represented the University of Malta at a symposium held in Strasbourg in 1977 on the teaching of French as a foreign language.

Dr Seychell then spent seven years studying French at the Sorbonne-Nouvelle Paris III University where he obtained his Ph.D. in French linguistics in 1979.

Back in Malta, he was appointed University lecturer in French linguistics and phonetics where his academic involvement was of great value to the running of French at the University. His first post was within the Faculty of Education where he spent eight years in teacher training of Maltese students. He was a pioneer in this respect.

The Ambassador went on to say that Dr Seychell in 1987 transferred his services to the newly reinstated Faculty of Arts, eventually succeeding, in 1992, to elevate French to the rank of an autonomous department, with him being elected as its first head.

This was the right time for Dr Seychell to get permission from Senate to draw up courses, which never were offered before, in French literature and linguistics at the BA (Hons.), MA and Ph.D. levels. This was immediately granted and French was put in line with other subjects of the Faculty of Arts.

Ambassador Chrismant added that Dr Seychell was always striving to promote French at the University and when talks were going on, over ten years ago, between the Rector (Rev. Professor Peter Serracino Inglott) and the Embassy to inaugurate a new French Centre, he had drawn up teaching programmes meant to teach French language and culture to students who do not choose French as their main area of study but who show an interest in the subject.

The Ambassador then highlighted Dr Seychell's achievements in the field of exchanges and bilateral agreements signed by the French department with French universities.

He also spoke of Dr Seychell's achievements in the field of publication, praising his 1996 book entitled Analyse systématique des erreurs: problèmes et perspectives. He also mentioned his five papers, which like his book, take mainly into account the linguistic and psycho-pedagogical problems that Maltese learners encounter while studying French. Three of these papers were published on the Canadian Internet.

M. Chrismant said that way back in 1997 a former French Ambassador to Malta conveyed to Dr Seychell the congratulations of Mme Margie Sudre, general secretary of the Francophone countries, for his intensive work in favour of French language and culture.

Bearing all this in mind, the French authorities had decided to honour Dr Seychell by bestowing on him the title of Chevalier des Palmes Académiques.

In his speech in reply, delivered, as expected, in impeccable French, Dr Seychell started by thanking the French authorities for the honour. He took the opportunity to pay tribute, in a scientific manner, to the power of the French language whereby he compared it to what President Léopold Senghor of Sénégal had described it in the past as "the gods' honey", owing to its sweet and melodic flow.

Dr Seychell confirmed what the Ambassador had said about his ongoing work in favour of French which led the subject to its academic independence. His main worry, he said, is the students' progress in the teaching/learning process. That is why he always placed the student at the centre of his writings.

Dr Seychell thanked the cultural section of the French Embassy in Malta who never failed to help him during his headship in his work in favour of the French language and culture.

The Cultural Section was all out to help the Department in the setting up of La Petite Auberge de France. It never relinquished the idea of bringing on the campus young and energetic French teachers to help the Department in teaching of French to Maltese students.

The annual invitation to the Department of French of a guest lecturer fully or partially financed by the Cultural Section is an ongoing process. The donation of books and other Educational material was always on the Embassy's agenda.

Since the French Department and the Cultural Section have common objectives in mind, nothing and nobody was going to stop their impetus, Dr Seychell said.

The speaker ended his speech by thanking all the guests who attended this ceremony and reiterated that he does not intend to bring to an end his work in favour of the French language and culture for he has other potential projects in mind for the near future.

Marks & Spencer Strait Street competition winner

Over 200 entries were submitted to the New Face of Strait Street Competition, which was launched in March as part of the activities to mark the opening of the new Marks & Spencer building in Strait Street.

The campaign used the face of young model Alison Zammit to symbolise the new life being given to this part of Valletta. Heralding this change was the opening of the spectacular six-floor M&S building which is an extension to the existing Marks & Spencer on Palace Square.

The competition asked Marks & Spencer customers to state why M&S was their favourite department store. Mary Rose Micallef's winning entry read: "Marks & Spencer is my favourite store because quality and choice are always a priority; service is very friendly and prices are affordable."

The panel decided that Mrs Micallef's entry clearly summed up the key aspects of the Marks & Spencer brand.

Flower Festival next weekend

Canon Alan Woods recently received donations in aid of the Flower Festival which is being organised by the Anglican Chaplaincy of Malta and Gozo, at the Holy Trinity Church and Bishop's House, Rudolph Street, Sliema, next weekend.

The presentation took place at Palazzo Parisio last Monday. The cheques were received from Arthur Castillo on behalf of Vascas Enterprises, Mark Hollingsworth on behalf of Forsyth Private Clients (Malta) Ltd, Christiane Ramsay Scicluna on behalf of Palazzo Parisio and Philip Mercieca on behalf of HSBC.

The flower arrangements in the church and Bishop's House will be produced by the members of the Malta Floral Club and congregation.

An Evensong, with the participation of the St Paul Choral Society directed by Dr Hugo Agius Muscat, is being held prior to the opening of the festival on Friday at 6.30 p.m. There will be an entertaining programme of music and dance, on Saturday at 9.30 a.m., followed by an art exhibition introduced by Fr Marius Zerafa at 10 a.m.

Saturday ends with a concert featuring the National Orchestra, at the Holy Trinity Church.

Sunday's events will start off with a festival Mass at 9.45 a.m. The weekend ends with songs of praise at 7 p.m.

Talks by the National Council of Women

the National Council of Women, through the Education Committee, will be holding a series of monthly talks. Two lawyers - Dr Roselyn Borg and Dr Claudine Zarb - will be conducting a discussion on Family Law, tomorrow and on May 26, at the National Council of Women Centre, Pope Pius XII Flats, Mountbatten Street, Blata l-Bajda.

Sessions start at 6.30 p.m. For registration phone 2124-8881 or fax 2124-6982.

The Social Issues Committee of the council is also organising a seminar, in collaboration with the National Commission for the Disabled, entitled "Sexuality and the Disabled".

The seminar, which will be held at Ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija, will be introduced by National Commission for the Disabled chairman Joe Camilleri. Social Issues Committee co-ordinator Carmen Spiteri, will chair the seminar. Fr Martin Micallef, Marcel Pisani and Graziella Buttigieg will deliver talks.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Social Policy Lawrence Gonzi will conclude the seminar.

Disabled people who need sign language interpretation and transport and those who wish to register can e-mail ncwmalta@camline.net.mt or phone 2124-8881.

Songs of Innocence and Experience at Ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija

A concert entitled Songs of Innocence and Experience is part of a series of evenings organised by a group of young musicians.

The concert, in aid of Ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija, is based on William Blake's poetry book which goes by the same title. The performers are Claire Massa, flautists Rebecca Hall and Robert Calleja, oboist John McDonough and pianist Davinia Galea.

The concert will include Vaughan Williams' Blake's Songs, based on William Blake's collection, Britten's Metamorphosis for Oboe solo, Michael Head's The Piper, Bilitis by Debussy and excerpts by Fauré and Sonatina Folkloristika for flute solo, by Charles Camilleri.

Philip Farrugia Randon will be reading three excerpts from his new collection of stories, Mid-Djarju Tieghi.

The concert will be held at the hall of the Archaeology Museum in Republic Street, Valletta, on Friday at 7.30 p.m.

Tickets, at Lm5 each, can be obtained from the museum's reception, or by calling 2163-6526, or e-mail: info@razzett.org.

For your diary

Car Boot Sales are being held today and every Sunday in aid of the disability programmes at Ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija in Marsascala, from 7 a.m. to noon.

The European Movement (Malta) will be celebrating Europe Day, at the Osborne Hotel, South Street, Valletta, tomorrow from 7 to 9.30 p.m. For more information phone Victor Spiteri on 2143-4372.

A bazaar in aid of the missions, is being held at King's, Tower Road, Sliema, from tomorrow to Saturday, and from May 19 to 24, from 9.30 a.m.

Caritas co-operators are organising a day-trip to Gozo on Wednesday. Buses leave Sliema ferry and Valletta at 8.15 a.m. for Mgarr. Mass will be celebrated at St George's basilica, Victoria, at noon, followed by lunch at Mgarr Hotel at 1 p.m. Buses leave the hotel at 6.15 p.m. For more information contact Marilouise Mifsud on 2133-0471, Mary Darmanin Demajo on 2131-3486, Josephine Farrugia on 2132-0016, or Phyllis Ciappara on 2134-2910.

The International Wives' Association is holding the monthly swop shop at Dar l-Emigrant, Valletta, on Wednesday from 9.30 to 11.30 a.m.

Lions Club Mdina are holding their annual Strawberry and Champagne Morning, at Villa Rihana, Bidnija, on Thursday at 9.30 a.m. For more information call 2137-4979 or 2141-5041.

Sacra Militia Foundation is organising a fund-raising vocal recital featuring soprano Phyllis Bajada Abram and pianist Yvette Maria Galea at the German-Maltese Circle, Palazzo Messina, 141, St Christopher Street, Valletta, on Friday at 7.30 p.m.

This will be followed by a talk on "Admirals of the Navy of the Order of St John" by Joseph Muscat, an established authority on the Navy of the Order. Light refreshments will be served at the end of the recital. Tickets, at Lm4 each, are available from the receptionist at Messina Palace or by phoning 2133-4156 or 2133-4001.

The men's section of the Catholic Action is organising a half-day retreat at the Victory church, Valletta, on Sunday, from 9 to 11.45 a.m. Mass will be said at 9.20 a.m.

A pilgrimage to Gozo to mark the 116th birthday of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, is being organised by the Fleur-de-Lys Padre Pio prayer group, on May 25. The group will board the 9.30 a.m. Cirkewwa ferry. Transport available from all parts of Malta. For more information phone 2123-1446 or 2124-5528.

Aux flambeaux pilgrimage to San Martin

The St Paul's Bay and Burmarrad parishes are jointly organising an aux flambeaux pilgrimage to the Madonna at the cave in San Martin on Tuesday on the occasion of the Year of the Rosary.

Privates will leave from near the parish churches of the two localities at 7 p.m.

Auxiliary Bishop Annetto Depasquale will celebrate Mass at the cave at 8.15 p.m.

President and Mrs de Marco's engagements - May 12-18

Tomorrow
10 a.m. The President receives the United Kingdom's Minister for Europe, Denis MacShane, at the Palace, Valletta.
Noon The President visits an exhibition of memorabilia of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Rhodes and Jerusalem, at the Auberge de France, Vittoriosa.
7 p.m. The President attends a reception and delivers an address organised by the European Movement (Malta) on Europe Day, at the Osborne Hotel, Valletta.

Tuesday
10 a.m. The President receives Tony Mangion and is presented with a copy of the publication The Maltese, at the Palace, Valletta.
11 The President is presented with the Malta Year Book - 2003 by Br Martin Borg, FSC, and Major Stanley Clews.
Noon The President receives Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Tonio Borg.

Wednesday
10 a.m. The President is presented with a copy of the publication Il-Festi Taghna, by Charles Coleiro, at the Palace, Valletta.
10.30 The President receives Russian Ambassador Valentin S. Vlasov.

Thursday
10 a.m. The President receives Walsingham Foundation (Malta) president and members, at the Palace, Valletta.
11 The President receives President's Award (Malta) chairman Charles Cilia.
Noon The President receives the president and council members of the Association of General Retailers and Traders (GRTU).

Friday
9.15 a.m. The President receives the Prime Minister at the Palace, Valletta.
10.40 The President and Mrs de Marco inaugurate the 3rd Sports Marathon and Spring Fair, organised by Mikiel Anton Vassalli Lyceum, Tal-Handaq, in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund.
Noon The President receives Israeli Ambassador Ehud Gol, at the Palace, Valletta.
6.30 p.m. Mrs de Marco inaugurates a flower show organised by the Anglican Chaplaincy, at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Sliema.
7.30 The President views a Passion Play by various schools for children with special needs, at the Catholic Institute, Floriana.
8 The President attends a reception hosted by the Malta Chamber of Commerce president and council members, at the Exchange Buildings, Valletta.

Saturday
10.30 a.m. The President attends the annual graduation ceremony of the International Maritime Law Institute, at the Malta Maritime Museum, Vittoriosa.

Sunday
7.30 p.m. The President attends a concert organised by the Beland Band Club, Zejtun, on the 25th anniversary of the inauguration of the bandstand.

Social and Personal

Births

ALESSI-ACHLEITNER. On May 3, at St James Capua Hospital, to Rachael Sammut Alessi and Karl Christian Achleitner, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - JUSTINE. Special thanks to Tony and Carmen Sammut Alessi for all their support.

ATTARD. On May 5, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Ruth née Sharples and Jean Paul, God's precious gift of a daughter - MARIE CLAIRE, a welcome sister to Jonathan. Thanks be to God and Our Lady. Special thanks to midwife Maria Cutajar and all the dedicated maternity staff for all their care.

BEKDERNA. On May 2, at St Philip's Hospital, to Basma and Dr Bariun Bekderna, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - SHIAM. Thanks to the St Philip's Hospital staff for their excellent care.

BORG. On April 16, at St James Hospital, Zabbar, to Shirley and Dominic, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - REBECCA. Special thanks to the obstetrician, midwife Mariella Abela Camilleri, Ms Tiziana Attard and all the staff at the hospital for an unforgettable experience.

DEGUARA. On May 5, at St James Capua Hospital, to Jasminka née Stankovic and James, God's precious gift of a daughter - KATARINA ANNA. Special thanks to the obstetrician and staff at St James Capua Hospital.

EBEJER. On May 4, at St James Capua Hospital, to Helga née Catania and Sean, God's precious gift of a first-born son - TIMOTHY ALEXANDER. Special thanks to the gynaecologist and obstetrician, midwife Lilian Azzopardi and all the staff at St James Capua Hospital for their great support.

FORMOSA. On May 2, at St Philip's Hospital, to Tanya née Debono and Samuel, God's precious gift of a son - DANIEL, a welcome brother to Raquel. Thanks be to God and Our Lady of Ta' Pinu. Special thanks to the obstetrician, midwives and the maternity staff.

HASSAN. On May 6, at St Philip's Hospital, to Habara Jamma and Ali, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter. Thanks to midwife Mrs Carmen Cannataci and the doctor.

MAISTRE. On May 4, to Sonja née Guggenberger and Konrad, a son - MATTEO, a welcome brother to Jennifer and Luca. Deo gratias et Mariae.

MIFSUD-STIVALA. On April 21, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Nadya née Stivala and Mario, God's precious gift of a first-born son - TIMOTHY ANDREW. Deo gratias et Mariae. Thanks to the midwives and all maternity staff at the hospital.

MILTON. On May 8, at St James Capua Hospital, to Lara née Spiteri, and Patrick, God's precious gift of a daughter - JADE SARAI, a sister to Jake. Thanks to Isabel and Lilian.

PISANI. On May 4, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Clare née Aquilina and Christopher, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - NIKITA. Special thanks to the obstetrician, midwife Marika Buttigieg and all the maternity staff at the hospital.

RIZZO. On May 3, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Francesca née Tabone and Michael, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - NICOLA.

SCHEMBRI. On April 3, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Frangelica née Camilleri and Mark, God's precious gift of a first-born son - KYLE. Thanks be to God and Our Lady.

SCHEMBRI. On May 4, to Nicolette Camilleri and Godwin, God's precious gift of a first-born son - TIMOTHY. Special thanks to the obstetrician, midwife Doreen Cassar and all the maternity staff at Karin Grech Hospital.

SCICLUNA. On May 3, at St James Capua Hospital, to Josianne née Farrugia and Oswald, God's precious gift of a son - NIGEL, a most welcome brother to Julian. Deo gratias et Mariae. Special thanks to the obstetrician, midwife Lilian Azzopardi and all the dedicated staff for their support.

VASSALLO. On April 5, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Lucianne née Attard and Edmund, God's most precious gift of a first-born son - LUIGI. Thanks be to Christ the Redeemer and the Divine Mercy. Sincere thanks to the obstetrician, anaesthetist, midwife and nursing staff.

VASSALLO. On April 29, at Karin Grech Hospital Maternity Wing, to Veronique née Farrugia and Werner, God's precious gift of a son - MIGUEL, a most welcome brother to Matthias. Deo gratias et Mariae. Special thanks to midwife Thresanne Howland and all the hospital staff for their support.

VICARIO. On May 7, at St Philip's Hospital, to Claudia née Cassar and Sebastiano, God's precious gift of a second-born daughter - GIULIA, a sister to Martina. Thanks to all the maternity staff.

WILLIAMS. On May 2, at St Philip's Hospital, to Maria Victoria née Mifsud and Renald, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - ISABELLE ASTRID. Thanks to the staff at St Philip's Hospital, including operating theatre, midwives and cleaners.

ZAMMIT. On May 6, to Josianne née Magri and Ian, God's precious gift of a first-born daughter - MIA. Deo gratias et Mariae. Thanks to the maternity staff at Karin Grech Hospital.

Engagements

Mr GORDON NAUDI, MCIM (London) and Miss CHRISTINE BONELLO, B.Ed. (Hons.)
The engagement is announced between GORDON, son of Mr and Mrs Louis P. Naudi, and CHRISTINE, daughter of Mr and Mrs Ronald Bonello. Fr Alfred Sacco blessed the ring.

Marriages

Mr ADRIAN CACHIA, B.Comm., AIA and Miss CLARA MIFSUD BONNICI, B.Comm., AIA
The marriage took place on Saturday, May 3, at St Aloysius College chapel, Birkirkara, between ADRIAN, son of Mr and Mrs Francis Cachia of Zurrieq, and CLARA, daughter of the Hon. Dr Antoine Mifsud Bonnici and Mrs Mifsud Bonnici of Hamrun. Nuptial Mass was concelebrated by Fr Joseph Mifsud Bonnici, Fr Joe Galea Curmi and Fr Vanni Xuereb. The ceremony was witnessed by Mrs Joanne Vella and Ms Roberta Mifsud Bonnici, BA, PGCE. Mr Tonio Mifsud Bonnici, BA Youth Studies and Comm., carried out the duties of best man. The bride was attended by Ms Annelise Abela. Master André Mugliett and Ms Suzannah Warrington were pageboy and flower-girl, respectively. Mr Pierre Fava, B.Educ. (Hons.), and Mr Donald Vella were ushers. A reception was later held at Torre Paulina, Madliena. The couple are spending their honeymoon in France and England.

Mr JOHN F. MacLEOD and Miss MARIELLA De BATTISTA
The marriage took place on Sunday, May 4, at the Transfiguration parish church, Lija, between JOHN, son of Mr and Mrs F.M. MacLeod of Glasgow, Scotland, and MARIELLA, daughter of Mr and Mrs Joseph R. De Battista of Sliema. Nuptial Mass was celebrated by Fr Joe Cini, SDB. Mr D. Moreland, CBE, and Mr Forbes MacPherson, CBE, witnessed the ceremony. Mr Kerr Luscombe carried out the duties of best man. Ms Rosetta De Battista assisted the bride. Mr Robert MacLeod, Mr Gordon MacLeod, Professor Charles Debattista, Mr Noel Debattista, Dr Martin Debattista and Mr Kevin Cullinane acted as ushers. A reception was later held at the Le Meridien Phoenicia, Floriana.

Major WOLF-RÜDIGER vom SCHLOß and Ms KATHLEEN CREMONA
The marriage between Major Wolf-Rüdiger vom Schloß, son of the late Mr and Mrs K. vom Schloß and Ms Kathleen Cremona, daughter of Surg/ Lt. Col. and Mrs A.G. Cremona, took place on Sunday, April 27, at St John of the Cross parish church, Ta' Xbiex. Mass was celebrated by Fr Victor Mallia, Fr Charles Carabott and Fr John Sammut. Mr Reinhard Drescher was the witness for the groom, and Mr Maurice Portelli was the witness for the bride. The duties of best man were carried out by the bride's brother, Mr David Cremona. The bride's nieces, Nicola Zammit and Hannah Cremona, stood in for her as bridesmaids. Benji Cremona acted as usher. A reception was held afterwards at The Blue Elephant Restaurant, Hilton, Portomaso. The couple will be honeymooning on a Mediterranean cruise and will then take up residence in Malta.

Silver Wedding

GEOFFREY and MARIELLA PISANI BENCINI are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. The marriage was officiated by Fr Clement Abela, OP, on May 14, 1978, at Fatima Sanctuary, Guardamangia. A thanksgiving Mass is being celebrated by Canon Michael Agius at St Paul Shipwrecked chapel, St Paul's Bay. Together with our daughters Krista and Berta we thank the Lord for these past 25 years.

Diamond Wedding

Chev. VICTOR EMINYAN and Miss OLGA VELLA
The marriage took place on May 9, 1943, at St Aloysius College, Birkirkara, between VICTOR and OLGA, Fr Attard, SJ, officiating.

Warmest congratulations from your son Alexander and his wife Maud, your daughter Corinne and her husband Joseph Buttigieg de Piro, and your grandchildren Victoria Jane and her fiancé Roman Krejci, David and his fiancée Priscilla Vassallo, Alexia and Chris, Louisa and Damian, and Andrea.

Obituary

BONDIN. On May 10, John, aged 78 of Zebbug, passed peacefully away, comforted by the rites of Holy Mother Church. He leaves to mourn his irreparable loss his beloved wife Lucia née Ciantar, his children Isabelle and her husband Mario Farrugia, and Joseph and his wife Marvi, his beloved grandchildren M'Claire, Anne, John and Mark, his sisters Sr Giovanna of St Joseph of the Apparition and Fortunata Vassallo, in-laws, nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends.
The funeral leaves his residence tomorrow at 3 p.m. for Zebbug parish church, where Mass praesente cadavere will be said at 3.30 p.m., followed by interment at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Zebbug. No flowers by request but donations to St Joseph Institute, St Venera, will be greatly appreciated. The family regret they are unable to receive visitors. May the Lord grant him eternal peace.

MICALLEF. On May 6, john e., of Fountain Valley, California, USA, aged 95, passed peacefully away, comforted by the rites of Holy Church. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Josephine née Brownrigg. He leaves to mourn his loss his children Dr Joseph Stephen Micallef, LL.D, Hon. Consul General for Malta in Minnesota, USA, and his wife Jane, Henry Charles and his wife Eileen, Edward George and his wife Marilyn, Alfred George and his wife May, 16 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, other relatives and friends. - R.I.P.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated in Malta in autumn at a time and place to be announced closer to the date. Donations to Id-Dar tal-Providenza, Siggiewi, the Little Sisters of the Poor, Hamrun, or donor's choice, will be appreciated.

SYCKELMOORE. On March 3, Captain JOSEPH ROBERT FRANCIS PAUL SYCKELMOORE, Royal Malta Artillery (Ret'd), aged 86.
Funeral service took place at Whitstable Cemetery Catholic Plot on Wednesday, March 12, at 11.30 a.m.

In Memoriam

AZZOPARDI PREZIOSI. Cherished and unfading memories of our devoted and loving parents ARTHUR and LILY on the anniversary of their passing away. Rita, Antoinette, Monica and Patricia.

FARRUGIA. Treasured and unfading memories of our beloved mother ANGELICA (Gegè) on the 19th anniversary of her death. Joe, Mary Rose, James and Rosalind.

GERADA-AZZOPARDI - JEAN née Barnes. Lovingly remembered and always missed, today the ninth anniversary of her passing away. Always in my thoughts and prayers. Joe. Lord, grant her eternal rest.

MILLER. Treasured memories of EVELYN, a wonderful mother, grandmother and mother-in-law, lovingly remembered by her family on the 17th anniversary of her passing away. May the Lord grant her eternal rest.

MONTESIN - VICTORIA. In loving memory of a dear mother and beloved grandmother on the first anniversary of her death. Fondly remembered by Franco, Mary Rose and family.

MONTESIN - VICTORIA. Treasured and unfading memories of a very dear mother on the first anniversary of her death, on Tuesday, May 13. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her daughter Lily and husband Paul, grandchildren Antoine and wife Jennifer, Odette and fiancé Melvyn.

ROBERTSON - CONNIE née Stagno Navarra. In ever loving memory, on the 10th anniversary of her death. Deeply loved and missed by her husband Douglas, children Carole, Kenneth, Debbie and Roger, Gillian and Joe, grandchildren, relatives and friends. A Mass for the repose of her soul will be said tomorrow at 6.30 p.m. at St Patrick's church, Sliema. Lord, grant her eternal rest.

SPITERI-PARIS - JOHN. On the 13th anniversary of his demise. Always in the heart and prayers of his wife Mary and all the family.

TABONE - SALVATORE. Cherished memories of our dear father on the 59th anniversary of his death. His sons and daughters. Merciful Lord, grant him eternal rest.

TABONE FERRANTE. In loving memory and grateful remembrance of our dear mother MARY, today the 10th anniversary of her demise. Greatly missed and fondly remembered by her son, daughters and family. Eternal rest give unto her, O Lord.

URRY - JOYCE née Bonnici. In loving memory of a most beloved mother, grandmother and sister, today the first anniversary of her death. Always remembered in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Deeply missed by her children Kevin and Carol, Joseph and Sina, Marie and Stephen, her grandchildren Christine and Neil, Nadine and Paul, Bernard, Francesca and Michela and her sister Eileen. Please remember her in your prayers.

VELLA. Fondest memories of dearest FRANK, who passed away 37 years ago today. Lovingly remembered by Lina, Mark, Klaus, Frank and all the family.

WARRINGTON. Treasured memories of our dear parents FRANCIS and HILDA on the fifth and fourth anniversaries of their demise. Always remembered with love and gratitude by their daughters Josephine and Alice and their respective families.

Appreciation - Sr Adalgisa Zammit, RSCJ

Ms Margaret R. Psaila writes from Sliema:

The Heavenly Father chose to call Sr Zammit back home on April 29 - exactly two days after the feast of the Divine Mercy and within the Easter season.

It seems the Lord wanted us to focus our thoughts on the real Christian significance of the mystery of death.

The great suffering of Christ's Passion and His glorious Resurrection prompt us to come to terms with the loss of a precious personality - a religious of the Society of the Sacred Heart, a Sister, a dedicated head of different schools, a colleague, a great friend who served with love and enthusiasm, a role model who gave so much to so many.

Her genuine interest in nurturing a love for reading will long be cherished by many students and members of the Duchesne Library. The library meant much to Sr Zammit and she invested much time and energy in it even when her health was failing.

The members of the library, like all who knew Sr Zammit, have suffered a great loss. But surely the service of Sr Zammit in the library will bear much fruit. Thanks to Sr Zammit, many young people have been offered a key to a world of profit and delight.

While expressing sincere sympathy to Sr Zammit's community and to her family I find it very consoling to keep in mind these words which Mother Teresa says about love, service and peace - values Sr Zammit was and is blessed with:

"The fruit of love is service
The fruit of service is peace"

Appreciation - Joseph Quintano

Magistrate Lawrence Quintano writes from Balzan:

Dear brother,
A few months ago, I never imagined that I would have to write an appreciation about you at such short notice. We thought that the danger was over and that we had more years together discussing anything under the sun. Unfortunately, fate has ruled otherwise and has mercilessly cut short our conversation.

You were one of those unassuming civil servants who contribute a lot without making themselves seen or heard. A mixture of intelligence, hard work and loyalty turned you into one many of the flowers who are "born to blush unseen" or those "gems of purest ray serene/The dark unfathom'd caves of ocean bear."

Had the opportunities available nowadays existed in your time, you would have gone a very long way indeed. However, these difficulties did not preclude you from giving a long service in the Accounts Section of the Medical and Health Department where you showed not only dedication to duty but also an obsession with accountability for every cent spent out of public funds.

You have left behind you a united family which will never forget your calm advice, your patience in adversity, your first class analysis of key football matches and your matter of fact approach to problems which cropped up from time to time.

I am sure that last Thursday our mother was waiting for you in heaven with open arms and you can say with Giuseppe Ungaretti:

Ricorderai d'avermi atteso tanto,
e avrai negli occhi un rapido sospiro.

May God grant you eternal rest.

St Therese Of The Child Jesus

(preparation for the arrival of her relics, July 20 to August 7)

Theme: Together with Our Blessed Mother Mary, we answer "YES" to the Holy Spirit. Prayer: Come Holy Spirit, set our hearts aflame with the fire of Your holy love. (Acts 1: 14; 2: 1-4).

Pharmacies Open Today

Malta 9 a.m. to Noon; Gozo 7.30 to 11 a.m.

Chemimart Ltd., 14, St Anne Street, Floriana;
Nashinal Pharmacy, 194, St Joseph High Road, Hamrun;
Evans Pharmacy, 40, St Sebastian Street, Qormi;
St Helen Pharmacy, Tumas Fenech Street, Birkirkara;
O'Hea Pharmacy, 128, Manoel de Vilhena Street, Gzira;
Pembroke Pharmacy, 87, Giuseppe Malfeggiani Street, Pembroke, St Andrews;
Samuel Pharmacy, Depiro Street, Sliema;
Medica Pharmacy, Naxxar Road, Balzan;
Tat-Targa Pharmacy, Plot No. 2, Constitution Street, Mosta;
St Paul's Bay Pharmacy, 504, Main Street, St Paul's Bay;
Agius Pharmacy, 64/65, Antoine De Paule Square, Paola;
Vittoriosa Pharmacy, 9, Triq il-Mina il-Kbira, Vittoriosa;
St Anne Pharmacy, Qaliet Street, Marsascala;
St Philip Pharmacy, Ceppun Street, Ghaxaq;
Pasteur Pharmacy, Tellerit Street, Safi;
Menelo Pharmacy, Dr Nikola Zammit Street, Siggiewi;
Nova Pharmacy, 142, College Street, Rabat;
Azzopardi Pharmacy, Capuchins Street, Victoria, Gozo;
Pisani Pharmacy, Bini Gdid, Sannat Road, Sannat.