On January 17, the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia celebrated with deep faith and gratitude the Solemnity of Our Lady of Arabia, Patroness of the Church in the Arabian Peninsula.

The previous day, in Ahmadi, Kuwait, the church that houses the statue of Our Lady of Arabia was elevated to the rank of a Minor Basilica, underlining the importance of Marian devotion for the faithful in this region.

The Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Paolo Martinelli at St. Joseph Church, Abu Dhabi, brought together faithful from the many linguistic and cultural communities that make up the Church in this land.

The Prayer of the Faithful and the Offertory were entrusted to members of different linguistic communities, some of whom wore the traditional dress of their countries of origin, as a visible expression of the richness of a Church made up of many peoples, yet united by one faith, one hope, and one baptism.

In his homily, Bishop Paolo reflected on the experience of faith in the Arabian Peninsula, where many of the faithful live as migrants. He described Christian life in this land as a shared journey and invited the community to recognize in Mary a constant presence along the way, especially in moments of difficulty and uncertainty.

“In this land of Arabia, Mary, Our Lady of Arabia, assures us that we are never alone; she accompanies us even in moments of hardship and suffering. Mary helps us walk together, united in one faith. She calls us to unity in faith and joy.”

After the Holy Mass, the celebration continued with a procession around the church, during which the Holy Rosary was prayed. The Rosary was prayed in several languages, allowing each community to participate actively while remaining united in a single prayer.

The celebration of Our Lady of Arabia became a renewed call to unity, to shared responsibility, and to joyful witness. Under the maternal gaze of Mary, the faithful are encouraged to continue walking together, building communion, and living their faith with confidence and hope in this land.