Sunday, April 17, 2011

Sad Day in Malta for America

Today, Palm Sunday, news is circulating that the American Ambassador to Malta is resigning effective August 2011. Ambassador Kmiec taught at the Notre Dame Law School and at Pepperdine before being appointed our chief representative to Malta by President Obama. Kmiec suffered serious injuries last year when a car he was driving accidentally crashed and resulted in the death of his beloved friend and spiritual mentor, Monsignor John Sheridan, and a religious Sister named Mary. While visiting Matla in October on Some other business, I visited the Ambassador at his residence. The Archbishop of Malta, the local pastor Father Michael and others all agreed that Ambassador Kmiec was loved and respected by the people of Malta. It seems he is leaving after the Inspector General took him to task for being serious about his faith and promoting understanding among diverse religious groups.
For me and Bishop Lumen Monteiro,CSC, it was a privilege to meet with the ambassador.  I am only sorry we do not have more like him. He will be a big loss to our diplomatic community and the good people of Malta. May God bless you Ambassador Kmiec.

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