Malta

Malta is a small island nation in Southern Europe, spanning approximately 316 km² in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily and north of Libya. With a population of about 557,000, its official languages are Maltese and English, and its economy relies on tourism, trade, and financial services. The Catholic Church, traditionally introduced in the 1st century by Saint Paul, is the majority religion, with approximately 501,300 Catholics (90% of the population), profoundly shaping cultural life through devotion to Saint Paul, Saint Publius, and Saint Agatha. Constitutionally recognized, the Church plays a central role in education, charity, and traditions, maintaining strong influence despite growing secularization. Stored: Malta

Country: Malta
Historic:	No
Existence:	–
Continent:	Europe
Region:	Southern Europe
Historical Region:
Area:	316 km²
Population:	557000
Catholic Population:	501300
Catholic Percentage:	90%
Catholicism Status:	Majority religion, constitutionally recognized
Official Languages:	Maltese, English
Capital:	Valletta
Catholicism Introduced:	1st century
Ecclesiastical Provinces:	1
Dioceses:	2
Patron Saints:	Saint Paul, Saint Publius, Saint Agatha
Predecessor States:
Successor States:

Geography

Malta covers 316 km² across three main islands—Malta, Gozo, and Comino—surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Its geography features limestone cliffs, harbors, and a warm Mediterranean climate. The capital, Valletta, and towns like Mdina and Victoria (Gozo) host vibrant Catholic communities, with pilgrimage routes to sites like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The islands’ coastal areas and historic sites support Catholic festivals and processions.

History

Malta’s history spans Neolithic cultures, Phoenician and Roman rule, Arab occupation, Norman conquest, rule by the Knights Hospitaller (1530–1798), British colonization (1814–1964), and independence in 1964. Catholicism, traditionally linked to Saint Paul’s shipwreck in 60 AD, became integral to Maltese identity. The Church thrived under the Knights, survived secular challenges under British rule, and remains influential. Key Catholic milestones include the establishment of the Diocese of Malta in the 1st century and the canonization of Saint George Preca in 2007.

Demographics

Malta’s population of approximately 557,000 is 98% ethnic Maltese, with small Italian, British, and other minorities. About 501,300 (90%) are Catholic, the dominant religion, followed by 5% non-religious, 2% Muslim, and 1% Protestant. Catholicism is pervasive across urban and rural areas, though secularism is rising, particularly among youth in Valletta.

Catholic church

The Catholic Church in Malta oversees 1 ecclesiastical province with 2 dioceses—the Archdiocese of Malta and the Diocese of Gozo—and approximately 85 parishes, guided by the Maltese Episcopal Conference. Archbishop Charles Scicluna leads the Archdiocese of Malta, directing extensive educational and charitable initiatives. The Church operates schools, hospitals, and social services, maintaining a strong societal presence.

Structure

The Church’s single ecclesiastical province is centered on the Archdiocese of Malta (Valletta, covering mainland Malta), with the Diocese of Gozo (Victoria, covering Gozo and Comino) as its suffragan. Key parishes include St. John’s Co-Cathedral (Valletta), St. Paul’s Cathedral (Mdina), and Ta’ Pinu Basilica (Gozo).

Introduction of Catholicism

Catholicism was traditionally introduced in 60 AD when Saint Paul was shipwrecked on Malta, baptizing Saint Publius, the island’s first bishop. The Diocese of Malta, established in the 1st century, became the foundation for the Church’s enduring presence, reinforced by early Christian communities.

Key historical events

Significant Catholic events include Saint Paul’s shipwreck in 60 AD, the establishment of the Diocese of Malta in the 1st century, the Church’s prominence under the Knights Hospitaller (1530–1798), the canonization of Saint George Preca in 2007, and Pope Francis’s visit in 2022. The Church shaped Maltese identity through centuries of foreign rule.

Catholicism status

The Catholic Church in Malta is the majority religion, with 90% of the population identifying as Catholic, and is constitutionally recognized as the state religion per Article 2 of the 1964 constitution. The Church holds significant influence in education and public life, though secular reforms, such as divorce legalization (2011), indicate growing pluralism.

Administrative subdivisions

Malta is divided into 68 first-level administrative subdivisions called Local Councils of Malta, grouped into three regions: Malta Majjistral, Malta Xlokk, and Gozo. Key councils include Valletta, Mdina, and Victoria. Parishes often align with these councils, supporting Catholic activities.

Cultural influence

Festivals and traditions

Maltese Catholics celebrate Saint Paul’s Shipwreck on February 10 with processions in Valletta. The Festa season, honoring parish saints like Saint Agatha (February 5), features vibrant village feasts with fireworks and Masses. Easter processions, especially in Senglea, are renowned for their solemnity.

Education and charity

The Church operates over 50 schools, including the University of Malta’s theological faculty, and supports charities like Caritas Malta. These efforts provide education and aid, focusing on migrants and the poor.

Art and architecture

Catholic heritage defines Malta’s culture, with St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, built in 1577, showcasing Baroque architecture and Caravaggio’s masterpieces. Religious art, including statues of Saint Publius, adorns churches and public squares.

Notable Catholic sites

Pilgrimage sites

Ta’ Pinu Basilica in Gozo attracts thousands for its Marian devotion, especially on August 15. St. Paul’s Grotto in Rabat, linked to Saint Paul’s shipwreck, is a key pilgrimage site.

Historical churches

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, completed in 1577, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosting major liturgies. St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina, built in 1702, is a Baroque landmark.

Saints and blesseds

Patron saints

Saint Paul, Saint Publius, and Saint Agatha, celebrated on February 10, January 22, and February 5, are Malta’s patrons, central to national devotion.

Associated saints and blesseds

Saints and blesseds include Saint Paul, 1st-century apostle; Saint Publius, Malta’s first bishop; Saint Agatha, 3rd-century martyr; Saint George Preca, canonized in 2007, founder of the Society of Christian Doctrine; and Blessed Maria Adeodata Pisani, beatified in 2001, a Benedictine nun.

Challenges to Catholicism

The Church faces growing secularization, with Catholic affiliation dropping from 95% in 2011 to 90% in 2020, driven by urban youth and non-religious growth (5%). Clergy abuse scandals have prompted reforms, including transparency measures and victim support programs. Immigration has increased religious diversity, with a small Muslim minority (2%).

Social and political influence

The Church promotes Catholic Social Teaching through education, healthcare, and advocacy for migrants and the poor. Its constitutional status ensures influence in public policy, though secular reforms like divorce and same-sex marriage (2017) reflect declining political sway. The Church remains a moral authority, particularly in rural communities.

External links

• "Maltese Episcopal Conference". Maltese Episcopal Conference. 2025-05-01. https://www.church.mt/.