|
MALTA
|
21.04.2001 |
The end of Nazju's life was fast approaching. For quite some time now, Nazju began to experience a great weakness. He passed away on the first day of July 1865. He was 52 years old.
The funeral service was held at "Ta' Giezu" Church in Valletta on the 3rd July 1865. The church was packed to capacity with men, soldiers, workers, women and children, all seeking to kiss Nazju's coffin. He was buried in the family grave in the chapel of the Immaculate Conception.
On the 12th January 1869, the remains of Nazju Falzon were placed in a tomb beneath the niche of Saint Roque, on the left of the main entrance to "Ta' Giezu" Church. Again on the 31st July 1952, the remains were placed in a new marble sarcophagus under the image of Saint Blais, near the altar of the Immaculate Conception. A painting depicting Nazju Falzon by Salvu Mallia was replaced that of St. Blais in 1987.
From 1892 to 1899, the Church authorities in Malta sought to gather evidence about the holiness of Nazju's life. In the proceedings, 51 witnesses were heard in all. The Sacred Congregation of Rites, by a decree dated 13th April 1904, opened the way for the eventual Beatification and Canonization of Nazju Falzon. An Apostolic Enquiry was held in 1906-1908 and was continued in 1930-1931. In this enquiry, 65 witnesses were heard.
The slab covering Nazju Falzon's tomb bears the words:
"Here rests in peace the Cleric Nazju Falzon, a doctor of laws. As he grew up in years, there increased in him the Charity of Christ, which is the greatest of the virtues. This true servant of God was distinguished for his integrity of life and his piety. After his death, he showed no uncertain signs of sanctity, so that he procured reputation among all Born on the 1st July 1813. Died on the 1st July 1865.
A friend has from his heart inscribed these words on the tomb of his friend.
On the 23rd May 1987, the Congregation for the Causes of Saints declared that after an intense study of the life of Nazju Falzon, it was established beyond doubt that in his life there existed to a heroic grade the virtues of faith, hope and charity and the cardinal virtues of wisdom, justice, temperance and fortitude.
 Return to Nazju Falzon's main page
|
