Hundreds of Gozitans and well-wishers turned out on the streets of Victoria to greet Mgr Mario Grech, who was consecrated the eighth Bishop of Gozo last Sunday.

The cortege left the Capuchin monastery in Victoria at 9 a.m. The Bishop was driven in the open-top presidential car, accompanied by his private secretary, Fr Eddie Zammit. On Independence Square, he walked with the crowd towards the Cathedral. Mgr Grech was also accompanied by his parents Stella and George and his brothers.

As he reached the Cathedral, the Police Band played the papal anthem. Inside Mgr Grech spent some time in the Chapel of the Sacrament in silent prayer.

Solemn Mass, led by Bishop Nikol Cauchi, was concelebrated by Apostolic Nuncio Felix del Blanco Prieto and Archbishop Joseph Mercieca, other bishops and around 200 other priests.

After Mgr Cauchi's last homily as bishop, it was time for the new bishop to be consecrated. The orchestra and choirs performed the Litany of the Saints as the new bishop lay face down in front of the altar.

Bishop Cauchi anointed Mgr Grech with holy oil as the Veni Creator was sung. Mgr Grech was then presented with his insignia - the ring, mitre and crozier - as the congregation burst into applause.

The new bishop then continued to celebrate the rest of the Mass, which ended with the singing of the Te Deum.

At the end of the ceremony, Bishop Grech cut a 220-kg cake, specially prepared for the occasion by chef George Borg. The cake, which took 210 hours to complete, was then distributed among the congregation.

President Eddie Fenech Adami, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Speaker Anton Tabone, Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono, Opposition Leader Alfred Sant, MPs, members of the diplomatic corps, Gozitan mayors, members of the judiciary and other distinguished guests were among the congregation.