Bishop urges integrity, unity and respect for life as new legislature opens

Malta's political leaders have been urged to place integrity, accountability and the protection of human life at the centre of their work as the country embarks on a new parliamentary term.Delivering the homily during the Mass marking the inauguration of the 15th Legislature, Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi said the challenges facing the country required more than administrative competence, calling instead for moral vision, courage of conscience and profound respect for the dignity of every person.The bishop, who celebrated the Mass in the absence of Archbishop Charles Scicluna, stressed that public life could only flourish when guided by honesty, integrity and accountability. He said citizens expected their representatives to act transparently and place the common good above personal or partisan interests.Addressing members of Parliament and public officials, he said integrity meant remaining faithful to one's conscience and doing what is right even when it is unpopular. He also called for a renewed commitment to justice, arguing that a fair society must protect workers, support families and ensure that economic progress benefits the entire community.The homily also highlighted the need for greater unity in political life. Galea-Curmi appealed for respectful dialogue and a stronger sense of statehood, warning against verbal aggression and political division. He said the national interest should always take precedence over partisan rivalries.Environmental stewardship featured prominently in the bishop's message. He described the protection of Malta's environment as both a responsibility and a moral obligation, urging decision-makers to adopt a long-term vision and resist development practices that cause lasting damage. He warned against what he described as destruction disguised as development.A substantial part of the homily focused on the protection of human life. Quoting recent remarks by Pope Leo XIV, Galea-Curmi said the defence of life from conception to natural death was a fundamental measure of a society's moral character. He argued that laws should always be assessed according to how effectively they protect human dignity, particularly that of the most vulnerable.Concluding his address, the bishop expressed hope that members of the new legislature would be guided by wisdom and work to ensure that integrity triumphs over corruption, truth over falsehood, respect over hatred, dialogue over division, service over selfish ambition, and conviction over convenience.