THE PRESIDENT INAUGURATES EXHIBITION OF PORTABLE ALTARS

THE PRESIDENT INAUGURATES EXHIBITION OF PORTABLE ALTARS

H.E. Prof. Guido de Marco, President of Malta, this evening inaugurated the month-long exhibition of portable altars in the Grand Council Chamber of the Palace in Valletta, describing it as a "manifestation of a people's identity".

Addressing the distinguished guests, Prof. de Marco made reference to past exhibitions held by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti and congratulated the Fondazzjoni for organising "these manifestations of a people's identity expressed in the costumes of yesterday, the family silver throughout the centuries and through the testimony of our beliefs and religious devotion."

"When we speak about Maltese heritage we are in actual fact embracing not only the past but the permanence of values which in their holistic message bring us to the roots of our people, our beliefs, our customs, everyday life, our projections into tomorrow," the President said.

"These portable altars are not only a work of beauty, they represent the significance of religion to us Maltese, not only in the splendour of the Churches but also in the intimacy of the home. For the celebration of the Sacrifice is not only linked to the Temple, but is brought in the household."

"This exhibition coincides with the start of the Third Millennium of Christianity. For us who have the gift of Faith, these portable altars are not simply a work of art but, within an identity of our people, link the message of Salvation with the Year of the Jubilaeum."

It is no coincidence that such an important exhibition is held in the President's Palace, itself a living testimony of the country's heritage, as Prof. de Marco pointed out the Presidency should be associated with the nation's culture.