The natural environment for children to be raised in requires a man and a woman, the Bishops of Malta urged in a pastoral letter to politicians.

“The family, created through marriage - which constitutes an everlasting bond between one man and one woman - should continue to serve as the natural and social environment in which children are born and reared,” the letter read. The Bishops requested that should the need arise to formulate laws regarding different forms of relationships, then the Government should safeguard and guarantee the dignity of every individual, without diminishing the essential role of the family as father and mother. 

The letter also spoke on the future generation, paying particular attention to the need to battle against the drug market whilst also asking for more schemes which entice youths to undertake voluntary-work.

The Bishops expressed their appreciation for all efforts made to help the less fortunate. Lastly, the letter expressed the concern the Church has for the environment, explaining that the Maltese people are ‘duty-bound’ to safeguard it.