Valletta – Malta.

Archbishop Mons. Guzeppi Mercieca.

Archbishop emphasises importance of family values among migrants.

In his last annual Christmas message as Malta's Archbishop, stressed upon the importance of maintaining family values among emigrants.

He introduced his message by saying that Christmas should help us open our hearts and prepare for God's love to humanity.

Referring to emigrants, the Archbishop said that on January 14th, the Catholic Church will be celebrating its annual day for migrants and refugees.

"The message prepared by Pope Benedict XVI for this day focuses on the emigrating family. It aims at emphasising the Church's constant work not only towards the emigrant himself, but also towards the emigrants' families."

He said that a family is the place where one grows up -- a resource of life, culture and love.

"The Church acknowledges the fact that an emigrant together with his family may be faced with several difficulties."

The Archbishop went on to urge all emigrants to keep in touch with their Maltese and Catholic roots -- to cherish them and pass them on to their siblings.

He also said that the biggest gift one can give at Christmas time is to visit and be present with family members, and to change into better persons, witnesses and promoters of God's love for everyone.

Finally he sent his blessings to all, and wished everyone a Happy Christmas.