AWALI (Agenzia Fides): In the midst of an uneasy ceasefire in the US-Israel-Iran conflict, the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, marked a significant milestone on April 6 with a solemn groundbreaking ceremony for the Vicariate Curia at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia [OLA] in Bahrain. The land on which the Curia will be built was donated by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reflecting the kingdom’s ongoing support for religious harmony and coexistence.
A statement highlighted the formal commencement of a project that will serve as a central hub for the administrative and pastoral mission of the Church across the region. “In these times of war, we must have great faith,” said Bishop Aldo Berardi, the apostolic vicar.
The ceremony began with the proclamation of sacred scripture and intercessory prayers, and was presided over by Bishop Berardi, who led the prayer in the presence of clergy, nuns, and all the faithful engaged in various ministries of service and governance.
In a deeply symbolic gesture, a capsule containing commemorative items related to the project was placed in the foundation, signifying both the historical importance of the moment and the enduring mission of the Church for generations to come.
Following the service, Bishop Berardi officiated the groundbreaking rite. In his address, he reflected on the significance of the Curia as more than a physical structure, describing it as a centre of coordination, service, and pastoral outreach that will strengthen the life and mission of the vicariate.
In these times of war, we must have great faith
Bishop Aldo Berardi, apostolic vicar of Northern Arabia
He emphasised that the Curia would stand as a visible sign of unity, fostering collaboration among clergy, religious, and laity, and supporting the spiritual growth of the faithful across Northern Arabia.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving and blessing, invoking divine guidance for the successful completion of the project and for all those who will contribute to its development.
The groundbreaking of the Vicariate Curia thus marked the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Church in the region, rooted in faith, service, and a shared vision for the future.
Also present were representatives of the contractor entrusted with the construction of the Curia, alongside distinguished guests from the Bahrain Petroleum Company and the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit and the broader national context of mutual respect, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence that Bahrain continues to foster.
Meanwhile, in a context of relative calm on the first day of a two-week truce, contingent upon the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Bahrain’s airspace was open as of April 9, according to the Italian Embassy in Manama, which nevertheless advises against staying near sensitive sites and gatherings.
A limited number of flights from Bahrain’s airport have resumed, and a sea connection to Saudi Arabia has also been announced to ensure continuity. The bridge to Saudi Arabia is operational but may be subject to closure at short notice.
