This appointment marks his third term as President, which proves his commitment and outstanding leadership abilities

Mgr. Prof. Emmanuel Agius has been appointed as the President of the St John’s Co- Cathedral Foundation, effective from the 31st of July, 2024. With a distinguished academic and professional background, Mgr. Prof. Agius is well-equipped to guide the Foundation in its mission to preserve and promote this iconic cultural and spiritual landmark.

A former Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Malta, Mgr. Prof. Agius is a scholar of international renown. His academic journey includes undergraduate and postgraduate studies in philosophy and theology at the University of Malta, culminating in a Doctorate in Sacred Theology from the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium.

His intellectual pursuits have taken him across the globe, with post-doctoral research in bioethics conducted at prestigious institutions such as the University of Tübingen in Germany, Georgetown University in the United States, and the University of Notre Dame. Mgr. Prof. Agius has been recognised with esteemed fellowships, including the Alexander- von-Humboldt Stiftung fellowship and the Theodore Hesburgh scholarship.

Beyond academia, Mgr. Prof. Agius has contributed to numerous ethical and theological discussions on the global stage. He has served as Head of the Department of Moral Theology at the University of Malta and holds memberships in influential bodies such as the Pontifical Academy for Life and the European Group of Ethics in Science and New Technologies (EGE). His involvement with the Commission on Ethics of the European Bishops’ Conference (COMECE) further highlights his commitment to ethical leadership.

Mgr. Prof. Agius stepped into his role during a period of remarkable progress for the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation. His leadership in previous terms, particularly in 2020 and 2022, has already left an indelible mark on the institution.

In fact, under his leadership, the restoration of the Co-Cathedral’s invaluable set of twenty- nine Baroque tapestries was completed, resulting in their public display last year after sixteen years of meticulous work. In addition to this, significant strides have been made toward completing the museum extension, a project poised to elevate the visitor experience to a world-class level.

During his leadership, the Foundation has also prioritised staff welfare, successfully updating its collective agreement twice, enhancing working conditions and fostering a motivated workforce. Navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Mgr. Prof. Agius ensured the Foundation remained steadfast in its mission, balancing conservation efforts with public health priorities.

Furthermore, the Foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary with the publication of Looking After a Cultural Gem, documenting its efforts to safeguard the Co-Cathedral. Participation in European Cathedrals Conferences has reinforced international collaboration, with notable partnerships, such as those with the Opera della Primaziale Pisana.

As Mgr. Prof. Agius assumes the presidency once again, his vision for the Foundation is clear: to ensure that St John’s Co-Cathedral continues to thrive as a beacon of faith, culture, and history. His leadership will undoubtedly drive forward initiatives that preserve its historical and artistic treasures while enhancing its accessibility and relevance to future generations.

Through his steadfast commitment, Mgr. Prof. Emmanuel Agius is poised to guide the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation into a new era of achievement and cultural stewardship.