Archbishop Emeritus Pawlu Cremona, a beloved and humble leader of the Maltese Church, passed away on 18th March, at the age of 79. His passing is mourned by many, including his longtime friend and fellow Dominican, Monsignor George Frendo.
The Maltese Herald spoke with Monsignor Frendo – Archbishop Emeritus Tirana Durres, Albania – who shared fond memories of their long journey together.ย Both members of the Dominican Order, they served in ministry side by side for many years.
Their paths ran parallel in so many ways โ they began celebrating Mass around the same time, with Monsignor Frendo soon to follow, as he is younger.
Their academic career also intersected as both learned theology and philosophy in Rome.ย Their life in the church also took parallel courses when both were consecrated bishops in a short space of time โ Monsignor Frendo in September 2005 and Monsignor Cremona shortly after, in January 2006.
Cremona was born in Valletta on the 25th January 1946. In 1962, he joined the Dominican Order and was ordained a priest in 1969. He went on to gain a Doctorate in Theology at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. He has held a number of leadership positions within the Dominican community, such as Prior and Provincial, before being appointed Archbishop of Malta in 2007.
His tenure as archbishop was marked by significant challenges, including the introduction of divorce legislation, which he described as a particularly difficult time for the Church. In 2014, he became the first Maltese archbishop to step down before retirement age. Tributes poured in following his passing.ย Archbishop Charles Scicluna praised Cremona as a โfaithful and loving pastor”.
As Monsignor Frendo recalled, “Monsignor Cremona will always be remembered for his warm smile, cheerful spirit, and deep humility.ย He was known for his simplicity and approachable nature, always encouraging forgiveness and compassion.ย His kind-heartedness made him a beloved and popular individual among the Church community and beyond.”
Monsignor George Frendoโs sentiments capture the essence of Pawlu Cremonaโs legacy – one of warmth, service, and unwavering faith.
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