St. George’s Day Parade 2023
Sunday 30th of April, Baden Powell Scouts Malta, the only Traditional Scouting Federation on the Maltese Islands, honoured the Scouting Tradition by holding the St. George’s Day Parade. St. George is the Patron Saint of Scouts Worldwide. The saint was chosen by the Founder of Scout Movement, Lord Robert S.S. Baden Powell, to serve as a role model renowned for his noble qualities.
The day started with a thanksgiving mass at the St. Publius Church in Floriana celebrated by Fr. Anton Briffa, the Archbishop’s Delegate for Scouting in Malta. For this annual appointment since foundation of the Scout Federation in 2011, the mass was animated by the St. George Scouts Choir who for the first time made an appearance during this mass. This choir was made up of Scouts of all ages and this was possible thanks to our dedicated Scout leaders and Commissioners.
Seven Scout Groups made their way to the Triton Fountain Square where they were formed up in ranks and ready to commence their marching parade marching through the main streets of Valletta.
This year, the parade marched all the way down Republic Street unlike all previous years. The Zebbug Baden Powell Scout Band led the 300 strong members hailing from Baħrija, Luqa, Mġarr, Mtarfa, Qormi and St. Paul’s Bay. The Federation’s has music elements including bagpipes, drums, snare drums, base drums and bellyras. The parade proceeded to St. George Square where the Chief Scout, Ms. Natalie Fsadni together with H.E the President of Malta Dr. George Vella, together with Commissioners, and distinguished guests awaited the passing of the scout parade. All Scouts saluted the President of Malta as a sign of their Duty to Country. The Chief Scout on behalf of all members of Baden Powell Scouts Malta presented a commemorative gift to the President of Malta.
The Chief Scout, Ms. N. Fsadni, presented the prestigious Thanks Badge to Mr. Ric. A. Smith, in appreciation for his noble donation of six (6), CPR manikins, 4 adult and 2 baby. Also an AED. This invaluable equipment will be used extensively in first aid training and practice, to make sure that all Baden Powell Scouts are always well prepared to help others at all times.
The parade dispersed at the bottom of Republic Street, Valletta, with orders from the parade master, Mr. Andrea Bellizzi.
2nd May, 2023