On July 2, Bishop Paolo Martinelli celebrated the fourth anniversary of his installation as Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia.

The day culminated in a solemn Mass presided over by Bishop Paolo at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Abu Dhabi and concelebrated by around 30 priests from different parishes of the UAE. Bishop Emeritus Paul Hinder, his predecessor, also concelebrated and presented Bishop Paolo with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of those present.

The liturgy was beautifully animated by the Shepherd’s Choir of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, helping to create an atmosphere of prayer and solemnity. Many faithful took part in the celebration, gathering around their Bishop in gratitude and communion.

“Four years after my arrival, like the prophet Jeremiah, I am aware of my many limitations and shortcomings, but I am even more aware that the Lord is among us, in our Church of Arabia,” Bishop Paolo said in his homily.

He also asked the faithful to pray for unity in the Vicariate and for him, “that he may always be a servant of unity in Christ.”

The call of God and His love for each person — themes very close to Bishop Paolo’s heart — were also at the center of the readings and the Gospel.

“The foundation of every mission in the Church is the love of God who calls us to participate in His own life,” the bishop said. “We are wanted, we are called, we are chosen through different forms to participate in the same mission of Christ, a mission of love for the whole world.”

After the Mass, Bishop Paolo shared dinner with priests and collaborators. In his greeting, the Vicar General, Fr. Peter P.M., highlighted Bishop Paolo’s human qualities, his closeness to the faithful, and the witness of his life.

During the dinner, Bishop Paolo also offered all those present a custom rosary made of olive wood. The centerpiece of the rosary bears, on its two sides, the Bishop’s coat of arms and the logo of the Vicariate, while the pouch containing the rosary also bears his coat of arms.

The joyful moment was enriched by the presence of the Shepherd’s Choir and the St. Joseph Band, who offered their music to those present.