The virus that prevailed over the past few months and which created so much tension and restrictions on our lifestyle, these last few days hit also a member of our Community of Augustinian Friars at Rabat. As a consequence, St. Mark’s Conventual Church is presently closed and the friars comprising the community are in quarantine. Although certainly this is not a pleasant experience, these days also served to make us appreciate the nearness of so many persons close to the Community. Hereunder is what the Prior of the Community wrote:-

“On Friday afternoon, as soon as we became aware that one of the religious at our Convent was Covid-19 positive, without waiting for us to be advised by the authorities to go into mandatory quarantine, respecting all those who enter our convent and to whoever frequents our Church, we quickly took the decision to close everywhere with immediate effect so that this virus will not spread any further. Thus, we Augustinian Friars at Rabat, together with our Provincial Fr. Leslie Gatt, with due respect to everybody, closed everywhere for the coming days until we reopen again the convent and St. Mark’s Church for the usual services to all.

We cannot thank sufficiently the many persons who, throughout the day yesterday did not cease phoning and writing to us offering their help during this time that we Augustinian Friars are obliged to remain indoors. Your solidarity gave us friars serenity during these times of such uncertainty and even fear. Many others like us experienced , or are going through, a similar experience in which we friars find ourselves. We do not wish anybody to experience such uncertainty and fear that this virus brings with it. However, at the same time, we pray to God that whoever has to face up to the situation created by this pandemic, finds someone ready to communicate, to offer solace, offers whatever help may be necessary. Throughout the day yesterday we Augustinian Friars truly experienced how many persons there are who have us very much in their mind and love us. Thank you from the bottom of our heart for your great heart.”

Whilst we augur a quick recovery, we promise to keep you in our prayers.