In 1907 a freshly-ordained young priest was regularly seen mixing with the tough men of the waterfront, preaching the word of God to uplift them. It was the first step by Dun Gorg Preca towards the creation of the Society of Christian Doctrine or M.U.S.E.U.M. Society at Hamrun that same year.

Dun Gorg wanted to create a team of lay catechists to teach the Gospel to the working class, most of whom was illiterate at the time. His small band of teachers, most of them manual workers, quickly spread to all the Maltese Islands, and despite opposition from within the Catholic Church, his gentle manners but strong character made sure his mission is accomplished.

Malta's first Maltese saint is a typical Maltese person. Humble origins, already fighting for his life as a sickly child, undaunted by opposition, firm in his believes. He was already regarded a saint in his lifetime. Now this is being officially confirmed by the Holy See.

In 2001 Pope John Paul II came to Malta where he beatified Dun Gorg and two other Maltese, namely Adeodata Pisani and Nazju Falzon. It was certain that Dun Gorg had all the attributes to become a saint and work started immediately on the canonisation.

On 3rd June 2007 Dun Ġorġ Preca is made a saint in a ceremony at the Vatican, led by Pope Benedict XVI.

To mark this historical event, MaltaMedia has prepared this special feature on one of the most prominent and best-loved religious figures in modern times.