Il-Qaddejja Taċ-Ċenaklu received the Nazzareno Vassallo Award 2023. The ceremony took place at San Anton Palace under the distinguished patronage of President George Vella.
The NV Award, organised jointly by Vassallo Group and CareMalta Group, which is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year, honours the achievements of individuals or organisations whose initiatives improve the lives of older persons physically, emotionally and psychologically. The first edition of the Award was held in 1998, five years after CareMalta Group was founded.
Il-Qaddejja taċ-Ċenaklu is a group of nine consecrated women who have been serving God for the past 59 years. They are based at Id-Dar tal-Kleru in Birkirkara and provide care for 45 senior priests who require care and medical assistance. The group is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the retired priests. If one had to count the years each member dedicated to this mission, the amount would reach 335 years.
The selection board, chaired by former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, included Ms. Rosette Bonello, Mr. Holger Suarez, Dr Alexander Schembri and Mr. Keith Demicoli.
In his report, Dr. Gonzi noted that the selection committee considered how the nine consecrated women have always worked without any publicity and that they have been devoted to this mission for many years. The board also stated that by selecting Il-Qaddejja taċ-Ċenaklu, as the winners, they would be sending a message of appreciation towards the work done by the priests and spiritual directors, who are in their care.
During this occasion, messages by Natalie Briffa Farrugia, Chairperson of the Vassallo Group, and James Sciriha CEO of the CareMalta Group, were also delivered. Pio Vassallo, CEO of the Vassallo Group was also present.
The other award nominees were: Adrian Casha, The Diaconia Commission of Dingli, Fr Marcellino Micallef, Mr John B Pace, Palliative Care Team, Bernardette Psaila, RO-SE Committee Group and Stanley Pace.
