After being in Malta for a few days, and specifically being here over Easter, I can see that many of my posts are going to centre around religion. This is the first, experiencing Our Lady of Sorrows Procession on this past Friday evening.
Religion
From what I have been told, Malta is 98% Catholic. The country has a rich history and has been so heavily influenced by the Arabias, that the Maltese language most closely resembles Arabic. And indeed, walking around and listening, if you didn’t know better, one might just think they were in an Arabic speaking country.
When I found out the statistic on Catholicism, I was so surprised. But evidence is everywhere. There are so many churches here, just about one every block or so. Walking down the streets one will see a religious icon at almost every front door. On the corners of buildings there are often religious statues set into the cornice.
While I don’t practice any religion myself, I was raised as a Catholic. I find all religion very interesting. The complete devotion is utterly fascinating to me. Religious houses, temples, churches, mosques are incredibly beautiful, full of art and treasures and most often are free! I will frequently go into a religious house when I travel, for the sheer beauty, the peace it brings me, and the quiet.
Because Malta is so religious and the iconography is everywhere, I have a hunch that my posts will be heavily influenced by this.
Our Lady of Sorrows Procession
This past Friday, sitting in my flat, enjoying my lovely charcuterie plate, I heard loud continual chanting of a sort. After a while, I donned my shoes and headed out to investigate. I noticed that people were standing in their doorways. Loud speakers spread all through the neighbourhood, were strung from balcony to balcony. Playing on repeat, were what sounded like the prayers and music that I had been hearing.
Far down the main street, I noticed a group of people. They had started to move towards me. As they got closer I saw that the forefront were made up of clergy. Further down, a massive structure was being carried on the backs of men. The procession would start and stop every few hundred yards.
This platform was adorned with Madonna and her son Jesus. As the procession passed, the towns folk gathered behind the statue and walked to the church as a group. I could hear the congregation praying alongside the speakers. The whole sight was incredibly moving.
Later I learned that this particular procession has been taking place in Malta since 1684.
Blending into the crowd myself from time to time, I was reminded of the strength of community. The value of being surrounded by warmth, commitment and friendship. This day was a perfect introduction to this incredible country of Malta.
