More than 500 children of different nationalities have taken part in World Children's Day, celebrated for the first time in the Catholic community of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia.

"It was a day full of emotions and joy for the children of the Catholic community of Bahrain, who gathered on June 7 in the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Awali, taking part in games, activities and moments of sharing", said Father Marcus Fernandes (OFM Cap), delegate of the Pontifical Mission Societies of Avona.

"'Please, sorry and thank you' were the three magic words with which, supported by prayer, wanted to convey to the children a message for a new world," he emphasizes.

"Together with our Bishop and Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, Bishop Aldo Berardi (O.SS.T), we celebrated Holy Mass and shared moments of reflection in which the children also asked questions to the Apostolic Vicar, accompanied by the cathedral parish priest Father Saji Thomas (OFM Cap)," the missionary continued.

"You are precious, smile and the world will give you a smile," Bishop Berardi said to the children present, encouraging the young participants.

The Day, led by Father Marcus and Catechism Coordinator Rogy Joseph, was organized by the Pontifical Mission Society in the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia and the Catechism Department of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia.