Start of procedures for beatification of Mgr Formosa

Archbishop Joseph Mercieca has issued an edict announcing the start of procedures for the beatification and canonisation of Mgr Isidor Formos, the founder of the Ursuline Nuns of the St Angela Merici congregation.

In his edict, the Archbishop called on all those who might have printed work, manuscripts, diaries, letters and other writings by Mgr Formosa to pass these on to the Chancellery of the Metropolitan Tribunal at the Archbishop's Curia in Valletta. Those who wish to retain the originals may present copies, which, once verified against the original, would be authenticated by the tribunal's chancellor.

The postulator of Mgr Formosa's case is Mgr Charles J. Scicluna, who is also the promoter of the canonisation cause of Blessed Gorg Preca.

On Sunday, Mgr Scicluna will celebrate Mass at Our Lady of Loreto Church in Guardamangia, during which the Archbishop's edict will be read. This will also be read out at all Masses on Sunday.

Mgr Formosa was born to a rich and noble family in Valletta on November 15, 1851. He was the eldest of three brothers.

Against his parents' advice, he became a priest in 1875. His priesthood was directed towards the poor children who frequented the Our Lady of Victory church in Valletta. In a short time, he set up the Figlie di Maria congregation, an organisation of girls who would dedicate their lives to beneficial deeds for people in need.

Later, he set up the Ursuline Congregation who are still carrying out good deeds in Malta and abroad.