Chorus Urbanus has once again featured in the annual award-giving ceremony organised by Cana Movement in Gozo, Premju Qalb tad-Deheb, which was held at Ta’ Cenc Hotel on Saturday, 24 January 2009. The Saliba Family, hailing from Victoria but residing in Ghajnsielem was awarded the 2009 Edition of this prestigious award.

Rev. Fr George Borg, Director of the Cana Movement in Gozo, and Hon Giovanna Debono, Minister for Gozo made the introductory and main speeches followed by the Chorus Urbanus’ performance of Jesus Hominem Amator by Johann S. Bach and Pacem in Maribus by the late Charles Camilleri. This latter piece was being performed in honour of the renowned Maltese composer Charles Camilleri who had just passed away some days before.

It was the turn of H.E. Mgr. Mario Grech, Bishop of Gozo to deliver his speech, following which Chev. Dr Paul G Pisani, Chairman of the Selection Board, read the report of the board outlining the merits which consented the 2009 award to be assigned to the Saliba Family. H.E. Dr Edward Fenech Adami, President of Malta presented the Award Shield to Teddy and Anna Saliba. Bishop Mario Grech, the Minister for Gozo, the Archpriest of Ghajnsielem, the Mayor of Ghajnsielem and the Treasurer of Cana Movement all presented their gifts to the Saliba Family.

Dr Fenech Adami concluded the ceremony with his message which happens to be the last one of his presidency in such an occasion, since he will be stepping down as President in April 2009. The Choir wrapped up the ceremony with an a 4 voci a cappella version of the Maltese National Hymn. The Hon Chris Said, Parliamentary Secretary, Hon Frederick Azzopardi, Hon Dr Justyne Caruana LL.D and Hon Anton Refalo LL.D were also in attendance. The evening was compered by Chev. Joe M. Attard. A reception offered by the hotel followed for all present.