The Mosta Parish Celebrates
The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
at the Mosta Basilica and National Shrine
29 July – 15 August 2026
Message from the Archpriest
Mary, Mother of the Christian Family
The family has always been, and will always remain, the foundation of every society. Without a doubt, the Christian family is also the foundation of the Church. St. John Paul II described the Christian family as the "Domestic Church." He even referred to the Holy Trinity as "God who is Family."
When a family lives by faith, both in times of joy and in moments of hardship, it is undoubtedly walking the path of holiness. This was the path followed by the Blessed Virgin Mary. She lived every moment of her life in faith, together with Joseph and her Son, Jesus.
Today, many families face numerous challenges and difficult realities. During this year's fortnight of preparation for the feast, however, we will focus especially on what makes the Christian family beautiful. Together we will reflect on the qualities and virtues that shape a Christian family, looking to Mary as our model and asking her to help us grow in those same values which she embraced within her own family.
We place every family in our parish under her loving protection, asking her to guard them from everything that could weaken their unity and integrity.
I wish you all a blessed and joyful feast.
Fr Sebastian Caruana
Archpriest
Note
Throughout the days of the Quindicina (Fortnight of Preparation), the reflections will be preached by Rev. Prof. Stefan Attard, a specialist in Sacred Scripture, particularly the Old Testament, the Book of Psalms, and the Biblical languages.
The liturgical music will be provided by the Diacono Orchestra and Cappella, under the direction of Mro Simone Attard.
Programme
Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Eucharistic Adoration
7:00pm – An hour of Eucharistic Adoration in the Basilica, is offered for the spiritual fruitfulness of the feast. Silent adoration will continue afterwards until 9:00pm.
Wednesday, 29 July 2026
Removal of the Statue from its Niche and Opening of the Feast
Mary unites the family on earth with the family in heaven.
We eagerly await this day, when the statue of Our Lady of the Assumption takes its place at the centre of our Basilica. This day is much more than the official opening of our feast: it reminds us that Mary is the one who unites the family on earth with the family in heaven.
During the coming days we shall gather together as one family for beautiful liturgical celebrations. As we admire the splendour of the decorations, the sacred music, the orchestra and the carefully prepared ceremonies, we are reminded of the beauty of Heaven itself.
Mary already dwells in Heaven, where together with the angels and saints she continually praises and glorifies God. Yet she also remains close to us. Her image in our midst reminds us that we too are pilgrims journeying towards our true homeland, Heaven.
While we live on this earth, we prepare ourselves by building bonds of love with others –within our families, our parish, the Church and society as a whole. These relationships help us prepare for the perfect communion that awaits us in God's Kingdom.
Today we ask the Lord to help us prepare to receive every grace He wishes to bestow on us during the preparation days of the feast.
Programme
8:00 am – Fireworks display by the 15 August Pyrotechnic Society.
12:00pm – Midday fireworks by the 15 August Pyrotechnic Society.
6:00 pm – Holy Rosary.
6:30 pm – Solemn Sung Mass celebrated by the Archpriest, Fr Sebastian Caruana.
Marian celebration during which the titular statue of the Assumption will be solemnly placed in its position for the days of the feast, followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The Maria Assunta Choir will participate.
A special collection will be made in support of the expenses incurred during the feast days.
As the statue is placed on its pedestal, a ceremonial salute will be fired by the 15 August Pyrotechnic Society.
8:30pm – Family Feast in Mosta Square, featuring food and drinks, live entertainment, children's activities and much more.
9:00pm – Fireworks and an infernal fireworks display by the 15 August Pyrotechnic Society.
Thursday, 30 July 2026
Beginning of the Quindicina
The Beauty of the Family at Its Beginning
Every family has a beginning, and that beginning is often a beautiful story. Each family has its own unique journey, and everyone can remember the moment when that special bond with a loved one first began. It was a moment when the first spark of love was ignited—a spark that gradually grew stronger and matured over time.
It is important never to forget those first moments and to continue appreciating their significance. From time to time, we should renew the enthusiasm and joy that marked the beginning of our relationships.
Although we know very little about how the Holy Family began, we can easily imagine the genuine and sincere love that united Mary and Joseph. In his Gospel, St Luke simply tells us:
"God sent the angel Gabriel to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary." (Luke 1:26–27)
These words reveal that a strong and faithful relationship already existed between Mary and Joseph.
Today we pray especially for those who are at the beginning of their relationships. May they take their time, grow together patiently and build their lives upon the fear and love of God.
Take a few moments today to remember how your own family began, and thank God for all that He has accomplished through your journey together.
Programme
11:45am – Fireworks by the Santa Marija Pyrotechnic Association.
7:00 pm – Holy Mass celebrated beside the Chapel of St Anthony Abbot.
After Mass, a Marian pilgrimage with the statue of Our Lady will proceed through:
St Anthony Street – Dun Ang Camilleri Square – Stivala Street – St Anne Street – Basilica – Rotunda Square.
The Santa Cecilia Choir will participate.
The celebration concludes with the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
8:45pm – Musical programme by the Nicolò Isouard Band in front of the Basilica.
9:00pm – Fireworks and infernal fireworks display by the Santa Marija Pyrotechnic
Association.
Friday, 31 July 2026
Day of Hospitality
The Beauty of a Family that Welcomes Others
A healthy family does not close within itself. Rather, it looks beyond its own walls and is able to welcome others without compromising its principles and values. Hospitality is an expression of genuine love, and such love can only flourish where strong family relationships exist. Otherwise, welcoming others can easily become a form of escapism or even alienation.
Mary is a wonderful example of this openness. While her own family always remained her first priority, she never closed her heart to others. We see this clearly in her visit to Elizabeth at a time of need. Mary's presence brought comfort and joy to the household of Zechariah and Elizabeth. One family supported another.
This visit also helped Mary to understand more deeply the mission entrusted to her. When Elizabeth greeted her, she confirmed the mystery of Mary's vocation by saying:
"Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?"
Today let us reflect on how welcoming our own families are towards others. May we never see people as an inconvenience, but rather as a grace through whom God helps us understand better our own vocation.
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary led by the volunteers and staff of the Mosta Rotunda
Foundation.
6:30pm – Holy Mass with the participation of those involved in the Basilica Visitors' Ministry.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Saturday, 1 August 2026
Day of the Local Council, Social & Civic Organisations
The Beauty of the Christian Family Committed to Society
Jesus told His disciples:
"Be in the world, but not of the world."
These words remind Christians that they are called to participate actively in society without allowing themselves to be shaped by worldly values.
Whenever we place our talents at the service of society, we glorify God while serving our neighbour. At the same time, we continue to grow personally, developing the gifts God has entrusted to us. Our abilities increase the more we use them, allowing us to experience the abundance of God's providence, who rewards generously every act of goodness done for others.
If we continually say, "I have no time," "I'm too tired," or "I'm not capable," we risk losing even the little we possess. We are reminded of the Parable of the Talents: those who used their gifts received even more, while the servant who buried his talent lost it altogether.
Mary teaches us to make the best possible use of the gifts entrusted to us. She also teaches us balance. While serving society, we must never neglect our own families. Social commitment should strengthen family life, not replace it.
Today we pray for the people of Mosta and for all the civic and social organisations that enrich our community. We also give thanks for the many volunteers whose dedication makes Mosta an active and vibrant locality.
Programme
5:00pm – Holy Mass.
6:00pm – Holy Rosary.
6:30pm – Sung Mass with homily.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Afterwards, members of the committees of the various civic and social organisations will walk from Curate Calleja Street to the statue of Our Lady, where floral tributes will be laid.
Sunday, 2 August 2026
Celebration of Baptism
The Joy of New Children in the Family and in the Church
Baptism is not simply a celebration for the parents and relatives of the child being baptised. It is also a joyful occasion for the whole Church.
Through Baptism, new members are welcomed into the Christian community. The Church rejoices not merely because its numbers increase, but because new children have begun their journey towards eternal life.
By presenting their children for Baptism, Christian parents express their desire that the whole family may live and grow together in faith.
Mary was present within the early Church, and we can imagine her rejoicing whenever she witnessed large numbers embracing the Gospel through the preaching of the Apostles. She was delighted in seeing others follow her Son and remained close to them, encouraging them by her example whenever they encountered difficulties because of their faith.
Today we pray for all those who have recently been baptised. We also remember those whose faith has grown weak, asking the Lord to rekindle within them the gift of faith and renew their commitment to follow Christ.
A special collection will be made to support the expenses incurred for the Feast of Santa Marija.
Programme
5:00pm – Celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism in the Basilica.
5:30pm – Holy Mass.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Monday, 3 August 2026
Remembering Our Faithful Departed
The Christian Family Cherishes the Memory of Its Loved Ones
Even during joyful days of celebration, it is right that we remember those family members who have gone before us.
Although we prefer not to think about death during a feast, our Christian faith assures us that those who have died, rest in the peace of Christ. Many are already sharing the glory of Heaven with Mary.
We are the fruit of those who came before us. Whether we knew our ancestors or not, we owe them gratitude as our lives have been shaped by their sacrifices and their hard work.
When we pray for the faithful departed, we maintain our spiritual bond with them. Although death separates us physically, our communion in Christ continues.
The Feast of the Assumption reminds us of Christ's victory over death and renews our hope in our own future resurrection. Just as Mary passed from this life on earth into eternal glory, so we also hope that one day we shall share in that everlasting life.
Mary herself knew the sorrow of losing loved ones. She experienced the death of Joseph and, above all, the suffering of witnessing her Son condemned and crucified. Yet she never lost hope. She trusted completely in the promise of the Resurrection.
Today we pray especially for families who have recently experienced bereavement. May they discover new hope and loving support from those around them.
Let us also remember someone dear to us who has recently passed into eternal life and commend them to God's mercy.
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary.
6:30pm – Holy Mass offered for all the faithful departed, especially those who have died
since last year's feast.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Tuesday, 4 August 2026
Day dedicated to Professionals and Workers
Work Sustains the Family While Serving Others
Whether we like it or not, we must work in order to provide for our families. Yet it is a pity when work is viewed merely as a burden that we are forced to carry. When we understand work as an act of service and a contribution to the wellbeing of others, it takes on a new and richer meaning.
Work gives dignity to the person who performs it. It provides purpose for every day and brings deep satisfaction, knowing that one's efforts have benefited others. Every form of honest work has value – even work that may seem repetitive or difficult – because, if anything, it serves the family for whom we work.
We often imagine St Joseph as the principal worker of the Holy Family. Yet there is no doubt that Mary also worked tirelessly to ensure that nothing was lacking in their home. We can imagine her supporting Joseph in his trade and sharing in the fruits of his work.
Good families can do a lot when they support each other's work! We do this by taking an interest in each other's daily responsibilities, listening to one another's challenges, and offering practical help whenever possible. This was Mary's way throughout her life on earth. She had no profession of her own and pursued no personal career, yet she was always ready to help wherever she was needed.
Today, let us show our appreciation for the efforts made by the other members of our families. May we find time to listen to one another's experiences of work and seek new ways of supporting each other.
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary.
6:30pm – Holy Mass in the Basilica. A special invitation is extended to all those who serve
the community through their profession or occupation.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Wednesday, 5 August 2026
Volunteers and Diakonia Day
The Beauty of the Christian Family Living the Works of Mercy
Thanks be to God for the many people who generously dedicate part of their time, energy and resources to serving others without expecting anything in return. They neither seek payment nor recognition for the good they do. Such generosity reflects the very spirit of family life.
Within every family we willingly give of ourselves so that those we love may flourish. Voluntary service extends this same spirit beyond the family circle.
Mary herself gave us a beautiful example of voluntary service at the Wedding Feast of Cana. No one asked her to intervene, yet she noticed the need and quietly stepped forward to help. Faced with the difficulties of others, she did not remain indifferent. She offered what she could and then entrusted everything to Jesus.
Volunteers, too, are called simply to do what they can. We are not the saviours of the world. Our mission is to bring others to Christ, just as Mary did.
Today let us ask ourselves where we can lend a helping hand. May we encourage one another to respond generously to those in need, remembering the words of Scripture:
"It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary led by parish volunteers.
6:30pm – Holy Mass for all those involved in parish ministries.
During this Mass the new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Readers, and Cantors will receive their official mandate to begin their ministry within the parish.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
Thursday, 6 August 2026
Children's Day
Children: A Blessing for the Christian Family
We often hear people speak about declining birth rates and wonder about the reasons behind this reality. Yet above all, we should remember that children are not an entitlement but a precious gift from God.
When children are born into loving and stable families, they become a true blessing for their parents, strengthening the bonds of love that unite them. Parents cooperate with God in the gift of creation and are entrusted with the responsibility of raising their children to become good Christians and responsible members of society.
This responsibility belongs not only to parents. The entire community also shares in helping children grow through education, guidance and example.
The Gospel accounts of Jesus' childhood clearly show how seriously Mary embraced her vocation as a mother. In the Magnificat she expressed her gratitude that God had chosen her to play such an important role in the history of salvation. She not only gave birth to Jesus but cared for Him lovingly with Joseph and accompanied Him throughout His earthly life.
Today we give thanks for all the children of our parish and pray especially for their parents. We also remember couples awaiting the gift of children, asking that they may recognise this blessing as a grace from God.
May we show children particular kindness during these days, speaking to them gently and reminding them by our actions how precious they are.
Programme
5:30pm – Children gather in Pope John XXIII Street, in front of the MUSEUM Boys' Centre.
5:45pm – Children's Marian procession passes through:
Pope John XXIII Street, Curate Schembri Street, Main Street, Rotunda Square.
6:30pm – Holy Mass animated by the Children's Commission and the Shalom Choir.
During Mass the children will make a charitable offering. A commemorative gift will be presented to all children from Year 1 to Year 7 attending the parish catechism centres who participate in the celebration.
After Mass there will be games and refreshments on the Basilica forecourt.
Friday, 7 August 2026
Youth Day
The Christian Family Helps Young People Discover Their Vocation
Young people today face countless opportunities and choices that previous generations could scarcely have imagined. These opportunities also bring greater responsibility and require careful formation to make wise decisions.
The Christian family plays a vital role in this formation by instilling values and principles that help young people discern God's will for their lives – their vocation.
God's will is that each one of us finds the place where we truly belong. Discovering one's vocation means discovering where God calls us to serve and flourish. Great wisdom lies in recognising that place and embracing it with joy.
Although we know little about Mary's early family life, we can be certain that her parents formed her in such a way that she was able to recognise God's call. Because of that formation, she freely and whole heartedly accepted the extraordinary invitation to become the Mother of our Saviour.
Today we pray for all our young people, asking God to help them discover their vocation. We also pray for their families so that they may continue to nurture Christian values and encourage and support their children patiently as they search for God's plan.
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary led by the Parish Adolescents and Youth Commission.
6:30pm – Holy Mass animated by the Parish Adolescents and Youth Commission.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
8:00pm – Games, music and entertainment for young people on the Basilica forecourt, with prizes to be won. Everyone is welcome.
Saturday, 8 August 2026
Altar Servers' Day
The Altar Gathers Christian Families into One Family
Christian families are not only called to gather around the family table but also around the table of the Lord. Family prayer unites its members spiritually and strengthens the bonds that hold them together. Grace before meals, the family Rosary, and other moments of prayer throughout the day become the spiritual nourishment that sustains the Christian home.
Every Christian family that prays together understands that it is not enough to pray in isolation. It also recognises the importance of gathering with other families around the altar of the Lord, especially on Sundays. How beautiful it is to see families approaching the Eucharistic table together! Equally inspiring is the sight of children actively participating in the Church's liturgy – whether serving at the altar as altar boys or singing in the parish choir. In this way they learn from an early age that the liturgy belongs to the whole People of God.
Mary's own participation in the life of prayer teaches us that prayer should never become a mere routine or obligation. True prayer springs from a loving relationship with God. Mary was gathered in prayer with the Apostles when the Holy Spirit descended upon them at Pentecost. She encourages us to cultivate that same intimate relationship with the Lord and to unite with one another around His altar, sharing the one Bread and the one Chalice.
Today, let us make a special effort to pray together as a family and, if possible, participate in the Holy Eucharist together with our parish community.
Programme
5:00pm – Holy Mass.
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary led by the parish altar boys.
6:30pm – Holy Mass, during which the new altar boys will be formally invested.
The Altar Boys' Choir will take part.
The celebration concludes with the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic
Benediction.
Sunday, 9 August 2026
Day of Migrants and Immigrants Living Among Us
The Language of Love Is the Common Language of the Christian Family
We often speak about the many foreign nationals who now live among us. But who is truly a stranger? Before God, no one is a stranger, for we are all His beloved children.
Human beings identify themselves by nationality, culture or race, but God looks beyond such distinctions. Throughout history people have migrated from one place to another in search of safety, opportunity or a better future. Today this movement is taking place on an even greater scale.
Some freely choose to settle in another country in search of a better life for themselves and their families. Others are forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution or hardship. Leaving behind one's homeland, language and culture is never easy.
These individuals and families need understanding, compassion and support as they begin a new life among us. The language that transcends every cultural barrier is the language of love.
The Holy Family themselves experienced life as refugees when they fled into Egypt to escape King Herod's persecution. Mary and Joseph were compelled to leave everything behind. Imagine the uncertainty they must have faced in a foreign land with a different language and culture, relying entirely on God's providence.
Today let us look upon those who are not Maltese with new eyes – not as outsiders, but as beloved children of God. If there is a migrant family living near you, perhaps this is an opportunity to reach out with friendship or practical assistance.
Programme
8:00am – Morning fireworks by the Santa Marija Pyrotechnic Association.
12:00noon – Midday fireworks.
5:00pm – Meditated Rosary.
5:30pm – Holy Mass.
Followed by the Marian Antiphon and Eucharistic Benediction.
8:45pm – Fireworks display by the Santa Marija Pyrotechnic Association.
9:00pm – Musical and vocal programme by the Santa Marija Band in front of the Basilica.
Monday, 10 August 2026
51st Anniversary of the Coronation and the 26th Anniversary of the Placement of the Star on the Image of the Assumption
The Christian Family Looks Towards the Glory of Heaven
Many of us work tirelessly to provide for our families and to ensure that they lack nothing. These concerns are both natural and necessary. Yet the Christian family looks beyond the needs of this present life and places its hope in the glory of Heaven.
While we strive to meet our material responsibilities, we must also care for the spiritual wellbeing of our families. We are called to walk together on the path of holiness, preparing ourselves for eternal life with God.
After completing her earthly pilgrimage, Mary was assumed into Heaven and crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth by the Most Holy Trinity. Her heavenly glory was not granted for her own honour alone but so that she might continue to intercede lovingly for us.
As we celebrate this anniversary, Mary reminds us that our true homeland is Heaven. While we live responsibly in this world, we must never become so attached to earthly things that we lose sight of our eternal destiny.
Today let us frequently pray the Glory Be, joining our voices with Mary and all the saints in their unending praise of God.
Programme
8:00am – Morning fireworks.
12:00noon – Midday fireworks.
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary.
6:30pm – Solemn Concelebrated Mass presided over by Bishop Carmelo Zammit.
At the conclusion of Mass, the Archpriest will renew the Consecration of the
Parish to Our Lady.
This will be followed by the Te Deum, the Marian Antiphon, and Benediction of
the Blessed Sacrament.
8:30pm – Street parade by the Nicolò Isouard Band through the streets of Mosta.
9:00pm – Fireworks display.
11:30pm – Ground fireworks in Rotunda Square.
Tuesday, 11 August 2026
First Day of the Sacred Triduum
The Christian Family Forgives and Reconciles
No family is perfect. Every family experiences misunderstandings, disagreements and moments of weakness. Yet what distinguishes a Christian family is not the absence of difficulties but its willingness to forgive.
Forgiveness is one of the greatest expressions of love. It is often difficult, because it requires humility, patience and generosity. Nevertheless, forgiveness restores peace and renews relationships that might otherwise remain broken.
Mary knew the pain caused by sin and division in the world. Standing beneath the Cross, she witnessed the cruelty inflicted upon her innocent Son. Yet she did not respond with hatred or revenge. Instead, she united herself with Christ and prayed:
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
In every Christian family there are occasions when forgiveness must be sought and offered. A sincere apology, a kind word or a simple gesture of reconciliation can heal wounds that have remained open for years.
Today let us examine our hearts. Is there someone within our family whom we need to forgive? Is there someone from whom we should seek forgiveness? May Mary help us to become instruments of reconciliation and peace.
Programme
8:00am – Morning fireworks by the 15 August Pyrotechnic Society.
12:00noon – Midday fireworks.
6:00pm – Holy Rosary.
6:30pm – Solemn Concelebrated Mass marking the First Day of the Sacred Triduum,
presided over by the invited preacher.
Following the homily, the congregation will pray the Triduum Prayer to Our
Lady of the Assumption.
The celebration concludes with the Marian Antiphon and Benediction of the
Blessed Sacrament.
Wednesday, 12 August 2026
Second Day of the Sacred Triduum
The Christian Family Perseveres in Hope
Every family encounters periods of suffering. Illness, financial worries, disappointments and uncertainty which often create stress in many relationships. During these moments, Christian hope becomes a source of strength.
Hope is not simple optimism. It is complete trust that God remains faithful even when we cannot understand His plans. Families who pray together discover that they are never alone in carrying their burdens.
Mary's entire life was marked by hope. From the Annunciation to Calvary she continued to trust God, even when His plans were difficult to understand. Her confidence never wavered because she knew that God's promises never fail.
Today many families carry heavy burdens. Some mourn the loss of loved ones; others worry about their children's future or struggle with illness and loneliness. We entrust all these intentions to Our Lady of the Assumption.
May she obtain for every family the grace to persevere with courage, trusting that God can bring good, even from suffering.
Programme
8:00am – Morning fireworks.
12:00noon – Midday fireworks.
6:00pm – Holy Rosary.
6:30pm – Solemn Concelebrated Mass for the Second Day of the Sacred Triduum.
After the homily, the Triduum Prayer will be recited.
The celebration concludes with the Marian Antiphon and Benediction of the
Blessed Sacrament.
Thursday, 13 August 2026
Third Day of the Sacred Triduum
The Christian Family Is a School of Holiness
Holiness is not reserved for a privileged few. Every Christian family is called to become a school of holiness, where each member encourages the others to grow closer to Christ.
Holiness is lived in our ordinary daily life: in patience, generosity, fidelity, prayer, sacrifice and countless hidden acts of love. Parents teach holiness by their example, children by their simplicity and trust, and grandparents through their wisdom and perseverance.
Mary is the perfect model of holiness. She lived an ordinary life in Nazareth, carrying out ordinary responsibilities with extraordinary love. She reminds us that sanctity is achieved not through extraordinary deeds but through faithful love in everyday life.
As we prepare for the Feast of the Assumption, we ask the Lord to renew our desire for holiness within our homes. May every family become a place where Christ is welcomed, loved and faithfully followed.
Programme
8:00am – Morning fireworks.
12:00noon – Midday fireworks.
6:00pm – Holy Rosary.
6:30pm – Solemn Concelebrated Mass for the Third Day of the Sacred Triduum.
At the conclusion of Mass, the faithful will recite together the Act of Consecration
to Our Lady of the Assumption.
The celebration ends with the Marian Antiphon and Benediction of the Blessed
Sacrament.
Friday, 14 August 2026
Vigil of the Solemnity of the Assumption
With Mary We Prepare to Celebrate the Lord's Great Works
After days of prayer and spiritual preparation, we now stand on the threshold of the great Solemnity of the Assumption. The Church invites us to rejoice because God has accomplished marvellous things through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Her Assumption into Heaven is the fulfilment of God's saving plan and a sign of hope for the entire Church. Mary's glory points towards the destiny prepared for all who remain faithful to Christ.
As we prepare to celebrate tomorrow's feast, let us thank God for every grace received throughout these days. May our external celebrations always reflect an interior renewal of faith, hope and charity.
May the joy of tomorrow's solemnity deepen our love for Christ and strengthen the unity of our families.
Programme
Morning
Holy Masses according to the usual schedule.
6:00pm – First Vespers of the Solemnity.
6:30pm – Solemn Pontifical Concelebration presided over by the invited celebrant.
Following the celebration, the traditional Vigil Procession with the relic of Our
Lady of the Assumption will take place through the principal streets of Mosta.
The Maria Assunta Choir, together with the participating bands, will accompany
the celebration.
Throughout the evening the streets surrounding the Basilica will be illuminated
and decorated for the feast.
Late evening concludes with a grand fireworks display.
Saturday, 15 August 2026
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Christian Family Knows How to Celebrate with Dignity and Rejoice with Others
Feast days are an integral part of our civic life, but they are also an essential part of our spiritual life, for they give us a foretaste of Heaven. Whenever we share our joy with one another, we participate in the very life of God, who is the source of all true joy.
Christian feasts bring families together and unite them as one family. How beautiful are those celebrations that reflect genuine joy born of love. A feast only loses its true meaning when it becomes detached from love of God, love of the saints, and love of our neighbour. If, in seeking my own enjoyment, I inconvenience or burden others, then I am no longer celebrating in a truly Christian spirit. However when our celebrations are marked by mutual respect and charity, they strengthen God's life among us.
Jesus often spoke of the heavenly banquet. Therefore, we should long for that eternal celebration.
Mary teaches us how to celebrate our feasts. At the Wedding Feast of Cana, she gives us the perfect example. Even while rejoicing, she remained attentive to the needs of others. She did not say, "I am only a guest," nor did she seek her own enjoyment while ignoring those around her. Instead, she ensured that the joy of the celebration remained complete for everyone, especially for the bride and groom.
Today, as we rejoice, let us not forget our brothers and sisters who are ill, those who are grieving, and those who feel forgotten or alone. Let us remember at least one person who is unable to share fully today's celebrations, offering a prayer for him/her or let us find a few moments to speak to them.
A happy Feast of the Assumption to everyone!
Programme
6:00am – Holy Mass in the Basilica.
7:00am – Holy Mass in the Basilica.
7:45am – Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion visit the sick in their homes to
distribute Holy Communion.
8:00am – Holy Mass in the Basilica.
8:45am – Fireworks by the Santa Marija Fireworks Factory.
9:15am – Solemn Pontifical Concelebration presided over by Archpriest Fr Sebastian
Caruana. The panegyric for the occasion will be delivered by Mons. Daniel
Xerri, Parish Priest of Xagħra Gozo.
11:00am – Fireworks by the Santa Marija Fireworks Factory.
11:30am – Holy Mass in the Basilica.
12:00noon – The Santa Marija Philharmonic Society, on its own initiative, will perform a
festive march beginning in Constitution Street, proceeding through Rotunda
Square and Eucharistic Congress Street, and concluding in front of the
Society's premises.
4:30pm – Holy Rosary.
5:00pm – Holy Mass in the Basilica.
5:45pm – Solemn Vespers and the singing of the Salve Regina.
6:45pm – The solemn procession with the Titular Statue of Our Lady of the Assumption
leaves the Basilica.
6:45pm – Ceremonial salute fired by the Santa Marija Fireworks Factory.
7:00pm – The Santa Marija Philharmonic Society welcomes the Titular Statue at the main
entrance of the Basilica with the traditional Ave Maria. Following this
performance, an infernal fireworks display and pyrotechnic salute will be given by
the Santa Marija Fireworks Factory.
The Society will then accompany the procession as far as Dar Pax et Bonum
Home, after which it will return to its club premises while performing traditional
marches through Callus Street and Eucharistic Congress Street.
As the procession reaches the premises of the 15 August Society, the Ave Maria will be sung from the Society's balcony.
8:45pm – The Santa Marija Philharmonic Society performs a concert on the Basilica
forecourt.
8:45pm – The Nicolò Isouard Band accompanies the Shalom Choir in the singing of
Marian hymns along Eucharistic Congress Street during the procession.
9:30pm – Fireworks by the Santa Marija Fireworks Factory, together with rooftop
pyrotechnic displays around the Square and an infernal fireworks exhibition will
be seen.
10:30pm – The Titular Statue is placed back on its pedestal inside the Basilica. The Marian
Antiphon is sung, followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.
The Committees of the Nicolò Isouard Band Club, the Santa Marija
Philharmonic Society and the 15 August Society join the Archpriest in giving
thanks to God for the successful celebration of the Feast.
The Nicolò Isouard Band concludes the festivities with a final march in
Rotunda Square, ending in front of its club premises.
Saturday, 22 August 2026
Feast of the Queenship of Mary
Programme
6:00pm – Meditated Rosary.
6:30pm – Thanksgiving Mass, with homily, celebrated by Archpriest Fr Sebastian
Caruana.
The celebration concludes with the Marian Antiphon and a Eucharistic
Celebration (as stated in the original programme).
Members of all parish religious and social organisations are warmly encouraged to participate.