[WATCH] Maltese bishops thank Pope Benedict for contribution to Church

Archbishop Paul Cremona and Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna delivered a message of thanks to outgoing Pope Benedict XVI who announced his resignation earlier.

Scicluna said: "We take the opportunity to thank Cardinal Ratzinger for all the work he is doing for the church. We pray for him and pray so that the Lord helps the Church select his successor, through the Cardinals after 28 February."

Cremona recalled the "four or five" personal meetings that he had with Cardinal Ratzinger, saying that while he did not always recognise him personally, he always had showed interest in Malta and the Maltese congregation.

Cremona noted that Cardinal Ratzinger was responsible for the canonisation of St. George Preca, as well as his visit to Malta a couple of years ago.