Congratulations are in order for Gozitan local Charles Spiteri who has been awarded quite the prestigious recognition by the Pope himself!
Mgr. Mario Grech, Apostolic Administrator for Gozo, has presented the “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” medal – the Cross of Honour – to Mr Spiteri on behalf of the Pope. The medal is awarded to Christians who have distinguished themselves in services carried out for the Roman Catholic Church. The ceremony took place over the weekend.
“Charles Spiteri is a veteran journalist and for many years his name has been synonymous with what was broadcast about Gozo,” Mgr. Grech said. “Years ago, when social communication was not so widespread, Spiteri undertook to communicate news about the events taking place in Gozo.”
“What Spiteri did for Gozo, he also did for the Diocese,” Mgr. Grech continues. “Charles was the channel for the life of religious associations, for the parishes of the diocese and of Gozitan missionaries to become national news. For some years he was a regular contributor to the Gozo diocesan magazine – Hajja f’Ghawdex.”
It has been reported that Pope Francis welcomed the request with open arms, personally congratulating and thanking Mr Spiteri for his selfless service.