On Friday June 26, 2026,  the Ruwi Parish celebrated the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, patron saints of the parish and of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia as well.

The Solemn Mass was presided over by Bishop Paolo Martinelli, and concelebrated by Fr. Michael Fernandes, Custos of the Capuchin Custody of Arabia, the parish priest, Fr. Stephen Lewis, the other priests of the parish and from the near parish of Ghala, and the priest animating the summer camp.

In his homily, the bishop presented these two “pillars of the universal Church” and patron saint of Ruwi parish. “In the footsteps of Peter, you are certainly called to have a special love for Peter’s successor, Pope Leo XIV, the Bishop of Rome.” In the footsteps of Saint Paul, “you are called to be a Church of disciples and witnesses.”

In this day the parish celebrated the two great Apostles who dedicated their lives to lay the foundation of the Church through their faith, leadership, preaching and martyrdom. Their join feast highlights the Church’s call to remain united in faith while proclaiming the Gospel to all nations. Together they symbolize the Church’s foundation, mission and unity.

After the Mass, the parishioners celebrated one week in advance Bishop Paolo’s 4th Anniversary in the Vicariate, in spirit of unity, faith and fellowship. The celebration continued after the Mass with a shared meal and moments of fellowship, strengthening the bonds of friendship and community among the faithful.