Seminar: Il-faqar u s-sempliċità f’Ġorġ Preca

In our times, the notion of “simplicity” is often overlooked or dismissed, while the term “poverty” refers to a vice or enemy that needs to be fought. Yet, within the Christian tradition, these two notions carry also the scent of virtue. The first beatitude expresses their intrinsic link to blessedness, while religious consecration entails the profession of the evangelical counsels that include poverty.  Over the last years, Pope Francis has often articulated his wish for “a poor Church for the poor”.

Against this backdrop, the research seminar will focus on the use and meaning of “poverty” and “simplicity” in the writings of Fr George Preca, author of more than 150 books and founder of the Society of Christian Doctrine, also known as M.U.S.E.U.M. For Preca, poverty and simplicity are fundamental qualities that help the human person live a better and peaceful life. With regard to Christians, they feature among the sine qua non-virtues of discipleship. The seminar will analyse the main points of Preca’s arguments, with particular reference to different theological and existential underpinnings of his exhortations.

Rev. Dr Kevin Schembri is a lecturer in canon law at the University of Malta and defender of the bond at the Metropolitan Tribunal. As ecclesiastical assistant to the Society of Christian Doctrine, he is rector of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Blata l-Bajda. The chapel houses the well-preserved body of Saint George Preca.

The general public is cordially invited to attend this public lecture.

RSVP Ms Gillian Cachia on +356 2340 2767 or kindly email [email protected].