Canons of our Diocese have their own stall in our cathedral or pro-cathedral. Having been appointed Canon by Bishop Robert, Canons are then installed throughout the year. 

This month, Canon Revd James Buxton was installed in St Paul's pro-cathedral in Malta. Chancellor Revd David Wright led the service, as James was given the stall of St Silas. He was joined at the service by friends and family, and by Canon Frank Hegedus from Budapest.  

"It was an absolute priviledge to be installed in the stall of Saint Silas at our wonderful pro-cathedral of Saint Paul in Valleta. Although I will continue in my ministry in Izmir, I am thrilled to have this association with Malta which is so full of beauty and charm. 

My great-uncle, Harold Buxton, was the bishop of Gibraltar in the period around the second world war, and I felt honoured and happy to preach from a public pulpit which he would have preached from many times during his tenure.

In my sermon, I said how moved I was by the example of St Silas, who was such a helpful, reliable and trusted companion of St Paul on his journeys. Best of all, St Silas and St Paul sang together when they were beaten and imprisoned at Philippi. A great witness to their faith, and to the gift of music to inspire and revive us even in the most adverse circumstances. 

Among my friends and family who came to support me were three daughters of the last governor general of Malta, who is commemorated with this handsome plaque.