On Monday, 8 December, the Seminary community joined the wider Universal Church in celebrating the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady, the patroness of the Seminary chapel. A Solemn Mass was held in the chapel at 11:00 a.m., with the Rector, Rev. Joseph Bajada, presiding. The celebration concluded with the singing of the antiphon Beata Mater, performed to a musical setting traditionally attributed to Mro Giuseppe Giardini Vella and uniquely preserved within the Seminary.
Following the Mass, Seminary lecturers and others involved in the formation of the seminarians assembled in the chapter room to pray Midday Prayer. Also in attendance were H.E. Mons. Anton Teuma and the Franciscan students currently studying at the Seminary. At the conclusion of the prayers, a token of appreciation was presented to Mr Joseph Bezzina in recognition of his service upon completing his role as Seminary administrator. The celebrations continued with a festive luncheon in the refectory.
