The early devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Ta' Pinu, 1883-1920

Abstract

Ta' Pinu is synonymous with Malta and Gozo as Lourdes is with France, and Fatima with Portugal. It is very rare to speak of Gozo and not refer to this place of worship. It is even rare to speak of the island and not having Ta' Pinu as a conjunction in the conversation. Many faithful (and pre-faithful) have experienced peace, tranquility and ease from suffering and pain through prayer for the intercession of the Blessed Mother, following a visit to the site. However, despite the popularity of the cult and of the devotion, few are those who have a hint of the history of the sanctuary and of the devotion which has flourished throughout the passage of time. This was the force which instilled in me the interest to investigate the early popular devotion to the blessed Virgin popularly known as If-Madonna ta' Pinu. Chapter 1 invites the reader to tour the various constructions which bear witness to the Marian devotion of the Assumption in Gozo. The small chapel known as tal-Gentili stands out since the end of the nineteenth century enjoying popularity at times, and braving times of neglect at others. The Episcopal Archives of Gozo (AEG) are a source of information with regards to recorded documentation of pastoral visits to this chapel. Chapter 2 gives a comprehensive biography of Karmni Grima, the peasant maiden from the till then 'forgotten' village of Gharb, who heard the voice of the blessed Virgin. The message which the blessed Virgin delivered to Karmni required a very deep analysis in the light of the events which followed. No effort in seeking sources of information has been spared and the books and the articles which have been published, along with an interview with Francesco Cauchi from Gharb who is 99 years old and who still remembers Karmi Grima quite well, will prove invaluable as we skim and scan the roots and the growth of public interest in the life and lifestyle of this simple woman.