Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Avona
Manama (Agenzia Fides) - The Jubilee churches and Cathedrals of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia (AVONA) are ready to welcome all those who seek inspiration, healing and a new sense of belonging: the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia (OLA) in Awali (Bahrain), the Co-Cathedral of the Holy Family in Kuwait City and the Shrine of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi, both in Kuwait, and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary in Doha (Qatar). The shrines named by Pope Francis on May 9, 2024 in the Bull "Spes non confundit" invite all pilgrims of the Vicariate, which includes the three countries and Saudi Arabia, to a pilgrimage of faith, salvation and spiritual renewal.
"We must express our 'hope' in this difficult world and be witnesses of our faith and its rebirth. This year we are invited to be witnesses of 'Hope', to take part in the pilgrimage, to root our faith in Christ and to be united with the universal Church," said Apostolic Vicar Aldo Berardi O.SS.T. in his homily at the opening Mass of the Jubilee held at the OLA Cathedral.
Other solemn services were held in Qatar and then in Kuwait, where the Apostolic Nuncio Eugene Martin Nugent presided over the Holy Mass.
According to the oldest traditions, the Jubilee celebrations have always held a special place in the Catholic tradition, as they represent a time of mercy, reflection and pilgrimage. By naming specific churches, Pope Francis invites people to experience the deep love of God, where pilgrims can find refuge in their prayers and spirit of community, according to a statement from the head of the press office of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia.
The naming of Jubilee churches and cathedrals is of particular importance given the complexity of modern life. The message of hope becomes a beacon in a world often darkened by despair and division. The meaning of the Holy Father's "Bull" is not limited to the walls of these Jubilee churches; it is an invitation to all to recognize the universal character of God's mercy and love. An invitation to embrace the spirit of welcoming and to cultivate a culture of mercy within our communities. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 10/1/2025)
