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Awali (Agenzia Fides) – The Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, commemorated a landmark moment on 6 April 2026 with the solemn groundbreaking ceremony of the Vicariate Curia at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia (OLA) in Bahrain. The statement sent to Fides highlights 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," Apostolic Vicar, Bishop Aldo Berardi, O.SS.T., told Fides. The land on which the Curia will be built is the result of a gift by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, reflecting the Kingdom’s continued support for religious harmony and coexistence.
The ceremony, which commenced with the proclamation of sacred scripture and intercessory prayers, was presided over by Bishop Berardi, who led the prayer meeting in the presence of the clergy, nuns, and all the faithful engaged in various ministries of service and governance. In a deeply symbolic gesture, a capsule containing commemorative items relating to the project was reverently placed into 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 Aldo 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 center of coordination, service, and pastoral outreach that will strengthen the life and mission of the Vicariate. He emphasized 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 marks 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 appointed contractor entrusted with the construction of the Curia, alongside distinguished guests from the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) 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, the airspace in Bahrain is currently open. This is reported by the Italian Embassy in Manama, which nevertheless advises avoiding staying near sensitive sites and gatherings. The reactivation of a limited number of flights from Bahrain’s airport has been announced, as well as a sea connection to Saudi Arabia to ensure continuity. The bridge to Saudi Arabia is operational but may be subject to closures at short notice. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 9/4/2026)
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