Tag: Kuwait

#faith

Cardinal Pietro Parolin to Visit Kuwait for Historic Proclamation of Our Lady of Arabia as Minor Basilica

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and the Holy See’s highest-ranking diplomatic representative, will undertake an official visit to Kuwait from January 14 to 16, 2026, as announced by the Vatican’s embassy. The visit forms part of the celebrations marking a historic moment for the Catholic Church in the Gulf—the proclamation of the Parish Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi as a Minor Basilica.

Cardinal Parolin will preside over the proclamation ceremony on Friday, January 16, 2026. The title of Minor Basilica is conferred by the Pope in recognition of a church’s historical, spiritual, and pastoral significance, and the elevation of Our Lady of Arabia holds exceptional importance as it becomes the first Minor Basilica in the Arabian Peninsula.

The Church of Our Lady of Arabia is widely regarded as the mother church of Kuwait. Its roots date back to 1948, when the first chapel was established to serve the growing Catholic community. The present church was constructed in 1957 as a gift from the Kuwait Oil Company and has since stood as a spiritual home for Catholics of diverse nationalities living and working in the region.

Over the decades, the church has played a central role in nurturing faith, fostering unity, and providing pastoral care in the Gulf. Its proclamation as a Minor Basilica marks not only a recognition of its legacy but also a powerful symbol of continuity, coexistence, and religious heritage in the Arabian Peninsula.

International

Capt. Venzy Viegas Inspires Goans Abroad at World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait

Tanisha Cardozo

The vibrant Goan community in Kuwait came together in a spirit of unity and pride to celebrate World Goa Day 2025, hosted by the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait. The event showcased Goa’s timeless traditions, music, and cultural diversity, while bringing together Goans from across the region under one banner of shared identity.

Among the special guests was AAP MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas, whose presence added significance to the occasion. During his visit, Capt. Viegas, along with Mr. Carmo Santos, President of the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait, paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Sanjay Muluka, Charge d’ Affairs and Officiating Ambassador at the Embassy of India in Kuwait. The discussion highlighted the invaluable role of the Goan diaspora in preserving Goa’s heritage, promoting its culture, and contributing to the state’s development from abroad.

Addressing a large gathering of Goans, Capt. Venzy Viegas expressed heartfelt admiration for their unwavering connection to their homeland. He said, “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Goans abroad. I request all Goans in Kuwait and across the world — let’s together preserve Goa’s Asmutai and build a Goa of our dreams for our Fudle Pilge Khatir (future generations).”

He lauded the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait for its efforts in keeping the spirit of Goa alive among the diaspora and for uniting Goans on one platform. The event reflected the powerful sense of belonging and pride that binds Goans across borders — a testament to their enduring love for Goa and its cultural essence.

Capt. Viegas also thanked the Goan community in Kuwait for their warmth, hospitality, and dedication to nurturing Goan culture, despite being miles away from their homeland. His message of “One Goa, One People” resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the collective spirit that defines Goans worldwide.

World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait not only celebrated the state’s rich cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds of community and identity that make Goa truly special — wherever Goans may be.

#faith

Kuwait: Our Lady of Arabia Elevated to Minor Basilica

allycaralgoa

The Catholic Church in the Gulf has reached a historic milestone with the elevation of the Church of Our Lady of Arabia, located in Ahmadi, Kuwait, to the rank of Minor Basilica. The decree, promulgated on June 28 by the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, officially recognizes the church’s spiritual and pastoral importance.

Speaking to Vatican News, Bishop Aldo Berardi, O.SS.T., Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, expressed profound joy over this recognition. He recalled that the church was established in 1948 through the efforts of the Carmelites and built by the Kuwait Oil Company for workers in the petroleum industry. In 2023, the parish celebrated its 75th anniversary.

“This church has always been a place of spiritual meaning,” Bishop Berardi said. “Here, migrants and those who came to work in the country have been able to practice their faith under the protection of Our Lady.”

The church holds particular importance as the home of the statue of Our Lady of Arabia, originally dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Blessed by Pope Pius XII in Rome in 1949 and later crowned by Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera in 2011 on behalf of Pope Benedict XVI, the statue is a symbol of devotion for Catholics in the region.

In a predominantly Muslim country where religious imagery is restricted, the presence of a Marian statue carries profound meaning for the faithful. “It is a shrine of great devotion,” Bishop Berardi emphasized, “and now its historical and pastoral significance is officially recognized.”

The elevation to Minor Basilica status strengthens the Church of Our Lady of Arabia’s role as a spiritual beacon for Catholics in Kuwait and the wider Gulf, offering a deeper bond with the universal Church.

International

Kuwait Glows Under the Rare and Enchanting ‘Gazelle Moon’

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Kuwait City, July 2025 – The skies over Kuwait were graced with a stunning and rare celestial event — the Gazelle Moon — a golden-hued full moon that enchanted stargazers and photographers alike with its soft, mystical glow.

Unlike typical full moons, the Gazelle Moon carries cultural and visual significance, particularly in Arab folklore where the moon is often likened to the elegance and gentleness of a gazelle — a creature symbolic of beauty, purity, and freedom.

As the moon rose over Kuwait’s skyline, it appeared larger and more golden than usual, casting a dreamy light over desert landscapes, city rooftops, and the Gulf waters. For many locals, the experience was a moment of peace and connection, inspiring poetry, prayer, and reflection.

Astronomers explained that this phenomenon occurs due to a combination of atmospheric conditions and lunar positioning, where the moon sits lower on the horizon, causing its light to scatter through dust and moisture, giving it a golden or amber hue.

“It’s not just a visual treat, but a reminder of the harmony between nature and culture,” said one local astronomy enthusiast. “The name ‘Gazelle Moon’ reflects how generations of people have tied celestial beauty to the stories of the land.”

The event quickly went viral on social media, with hashtags like #GazelleMoon and #GoldenMoon trending across the Gulf. Several amateur and professional photographers shared stunning visuals of the moon over Kuwait Towers, desert dunes, and palm-lined streets.

While the Gazelle Moon is rare, experts say we may witness similar events in the future — especially during warm months with dusty atmospheric layers. Until then, the memory of Kuwait glowing under a golden moon remains etched in the hearts of those lucky enough to see it.

Events in Goa

Goa Day 2025: A Vibrant Celebration of Goan Culture in Kuwait

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The Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association in Kuwait recently hosted a spectacular celebration of Goa Day 2025, bringing the vibrant spirit of Goa to the heart of Kuwait. The event, held on May 2nd, drew large crowds from the Goan and wider Indian community, showcasing the rich culture, traditions, and unity of Goa.

Photo Credits : Rivon Gomes

The occasion was graced by the presence of Shri. Alexo Redinaldo Lourenco, Honorable MLA of Curtorim Constituency, Goa, who was the Chief Guest of the event. “I’m delighted to see the Goan community in Kuwait come together to celebrate our rich heritage,” he said, highlighting the strong bonds between the Goan diaspora in Kuwait and their homeland.

The evening featured a range of performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Renowned artists Mark Revlon-Goa, Ester Noronha-Mangalore, Polly, Succoro, and Ben Evengelist-UK, along with local Goan and Mangalorean artists in Kuwait, created a colorful tapestry of Goan music, dance, and artistic expression.

The President of the Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association expressed heartfelt gratitude to all supporters, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees, saying, “Goa Day 2025 is a testament to our unity, our love for our culture, and the unwavering spirit of the Goan community in Kuwait.”

The event recognized notable community members for their service and contribution to cultural preservation and welfare activities. “This celebration is a reminder of the values of community, solidarity, and pride in one’s roots,” said a community leader, reflecting the event’s impact.

The success of Goa Day 2025 has further solidified the role of the Good Shepherds Cultural and Social Welfare Association as a pillar of cultural unity for Goans living in Kuwait.