Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1541943
6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 12 DECEMBER 2025 NEWS CIRCOLO Gozitano has ex- pressed concern over the limited presence of Gozitan political and civic representatives at this year's Gieh Għawdx celebrations, held on Sunday, 26 October 2025, which mark the annual commem- oration of Jum Għawdx (Gozo Day) and celebrate the island's heritage, identity, and historical legacy. The day began with a solemn Pontifical Mass at the Gozo Ca- thedral, led by Bishop Anton Te- uma, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument of Archpr iest Saverio Cassar in In- dependence Square. The evening programme, organised by Circo- lo Gozitano, included the official Gieh Għawdx Award ceremony and a reception attended by Presi- dent Myriam Spiteri Debono. Circolo Gozitano thanked those representatives who were present, however, noted the absence of several other Members of Parlia- ment, Mayors, Local Council rep- resentatives, and Members of the European Parliament, describing the limited attendance as disap- pointing. Circolo Gozitano em- phasized that Jum Għawdx plays a crucial role in strengthening the island's social fabric, uniting the community, and reaffirming Gozo's contribution to national history. The organisation called for stronger participation from Gozitan leaders in future editions of Gieh Għawdx, stressing that active engagement is fundamental to sustaining the island's shared cultural identity. Circolo Gozi- tano reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Gozo's cultural, historical, and social interests and looks forward to continued col- laboration with institutions and community representatives. Circolo Gozitano disappointed by low attendance at Gozo Day President Myriam Spiteri attended the event in Gozo NATIVITY cribs featured in in- ternational exhibition in Rome SIX nativity cribs from Mal- ta and Gozo are among 45 cribs from 20 countries be- ing displayed at a prestigious exhibition at the Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle in Rome. Malta's participation was organised by the Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepji Għawdex Malta 1985 with the support of the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering, which funded all transport-related expens- es. The official inauguration of the exhibition was attended by Minister Julia Farrugia on Sat- urday, 6 December 2025. Eight Maltese volunteers as- sisted with the installation, which also features contri- butions from countries re- nowned for their artistic crib traditions, including Spain, It- aly, Austria, and Germany. On this occasion, the Crib Muse- um in Greccio was also inau- gurated, featuring the Maltese crib created by Benny Camill- eri, chosen by the local mayor, which will become part of the museum's permanent collec- tion. Farrugia said it was "a great satisfaction for the ministry to support voluntary work such as crib building being recog- nised in this way." She added that volunteers help keep Mal- tese and Gozitan traditions alive, and the government continues to support the vol- untary sector that distinguish- es the nation. Carmen Camilleri, Secretary of Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepji Għawdex Malta 1985, thanked Minister Farrugia for her cru- cial assistance, including fund- ing transport, which made it possible for Maltese cribs to be displayed alongside others in an international-level exhi- bition. The exhibition will remain open until 2 February 2026 and is expected to be visited by thousands of people. Nativity cribs from Gozo featured in international exhibition in Rome The official inauguration of the exhibition was attended by Minister Julia Farrugia on Saturday, 6 December 2025