Alfred Xuereb to Attend Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival 2026

The Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival 2026 will feature The Most Reverend Alfred Xuereb, a prominent Maltese prelate of the Catholic Church, known for his work in the Holy See's diplomatic service. The festival, organized by Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS) in partnership with the Ministries of Culture and Tourism, will be held from November 9th to 15th, 2026.

Alfred Xuereb's Contributions to the Church

Msgr. Xuereb has an esteemed background with key roles within the Vatican. He served as the private secretary to Pope Benedict XVI from 2007 to 2013 and to Pope Francis from 2013 to 2014. Currently, he holds the position of Apostolic Nuncio to Morocco. His participation in the festival is highly anticipated due to his significant contributions and unique experiences within the Church.

'My Days with Benedict XVI'

During the festival, Msgr. Xuereb will present his book titled My Days with Benedict XVI. The book provides an intimate account of his experiences with the pope, detailing daily life and significant events. It offers rare glimpses into Pope Benedict XVI's interactions with international dignitaries, his personal relationships, and spiritual reflections.

Key highlights include:

• Celebrations of Christmas and Lent with the pope
• Insights into meetings with global leaders
• Personal anecdotes reflecting the pontiff's humor and compassion

Festival Significance

The Hon. Christian Santos, Minister for Culture and Tourism, expressed excitement about Xuereb's participation, considering it a valuable addition to the festival's diverse literary offerings. He noted, “His book is fascinating, and the insights Monsignor Xuereb provides about his time with two popes are unparalleled.”

Event Details

The Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival will host a variety of authors and themes, promising rich and varied discussions. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with authors like Msgr. Xuereb and explore a broad spectrum of literary genres.

For those interested in further details about the festival, inquiries can be directed to the Festival Director via phone or email.

The Broader Impact

Inclusion of notable figures like Msgr. Xuereb enhances the festival's appeal, attracting participants interested in both religious and literary narratives. His book not only enriches the festival but also offers valuable insights into the workings of the Vatican and the personal dynamics of its leaders.