On March 20, 2025, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, arrived in Bahrain on an official and pastoral visit, marking a significant moment for the Catholic community in the region.

Upon his arrival at Bahrain International Airport, Cardinal Pizzaballa was warmly received by His Excellency Bishop Aldo Berardi, O.SS.T., the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia. Accompanying the bishop were members of the local clergy, including a delegation of priests and representatives from the King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence. Their presence underscored the spirit of interfaith harmony and collaboration that Bahrain has fostered in recent years.

Following his arrival, Cardinal Pizzaballa was welcomed at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manama, one of the oldest and most significant churches in the region. There, he will have the opportunity to meet with parishioners, clergy, and community leaders, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to supporting the faithful in Bahrain.

As part of his visit to the Sacred Heart Church, Cardinal Pizzaballa also toured the museum dedicated to the Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to Bahrain, which is located within the church premises. The museum stands as a testament to the historic visit of the Holy Father in 2022, celebrating the themes of peace, dialogue, and interfaith coexistence that Bahrain continues to uphold.

During his stay, Cardinal Pizzaballa is expected to meet with local Christian leaders, celebrate the Eucharist with the faithful, and engage in meetings  on religious coexistence, dialogue, and pastoral care for the region’s Catholic community. His visit reaffirms the commitment of the Church to strengthening the bonds of faith and fraternity in the Arabian Peninsula.

Bahrain, known for its dedication to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, has welcomed numerous religious leaders in recent years. The reception of Cardinal Pizzaballa further reflects the nation’s commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding among different religious traditions.

Cardinal Pizzaballa’s scheduled and key meetings during his visit bring encouragement and spiritual renewal to the Catholic community in Bahrain.