A Prayer for the Land of Goodness-Holy Family Co-Cathedral, Kuwait City | April 28, 2026
In a deeply moving act of faith and unity, the Holy Family Co-athedral in Kuwait City hosted an emotional ecumenical prayer gathering on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 — a united cry to God for peace in Kuwait and across the entire Middle East.
The gathering, titled “Prayer for the Land of Goodness – State of Kuwait,” brought together religious leaders from the various Christian churches and denominations present in the country, alongside numerous ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps from different nations. Among those present was the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican, Archbishop His Grace Eugene Nugent.
Presiding in Unity
The prayer was presided over by Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, who led the assembly in a heartfelt intercession for peace. In his homily, Bishop Aldo did not shy away from the weight of the moment: “We lift our hearts to God at a time when wounds are many and cries of pain are rising in our region, in the Middle East.”
Drawing from the Gospel of the Sermon on the Mount, he reminded all present that peacemaking is an active, courageous calling — one that sometimes means going against the tide. “To be peacemakers sometimes means going against the current, choosing dialogue when division prevails, and sowing hope when despair spreads.”
He also offered prayers for the State of Kuwait, for His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, for His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and for the government and all first responders who serve this beloved nation.
Beyond Words — A Call to Action
Bishop Aldo’s message to the assembly was both a challenge and an invitation: do not be mere spectators in the work of peace, but become active bridge-builders of mutual understanding and communion. His words rang clear and simple — “Blessed are not only those who speak about peace, but those who make peace.”
A Witness of Interreligious Harmony
What made the evening particularly remarkable was its breadth. The gathering was not limited to Christians alone — several Muslims, Kuwaiti citizens and religious figures were also present, offering a powerful witness to the spirit of interreligious sensitivity and respect that defines life in this Land of Goodness.
The ceremony concluded with a deeply symbolic ritual: representatives of the various Christian churches came forward to light candles and offer prayers to God in different languages — a radiant sign that the light of hope can and must overcome the darkness of fear, uncertainty, and hatred, opening the way to a future of hope, prosperity, and lasting peace.
“The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace.”
— Psalm 29:11
