Kuwait City, January 16, 2026 — The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, concluded his pastoral and diplomatic visit to Kuwait, marked by heartfelt encounters with clergy, religious, and the faithful of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia. His two-day visit, held from January 15–16, featured the elevation of the Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi to the rank of Minor Basilica, a historic moment for the Catholic community in the Gulf region.
On Thursday, January 15, Cardinal Parolin celebrated Mass and met with priests and religious at the Holy Family Co-Cathedral in Kuwait City, conveying the greetings and blessings of Pope Leo XIV. Expressing gratitude for their dedication and service, often carried out in challenging and multicultural environments, the Cardinal encouraged them to continue being witnesses of hope in society.
During his address, he reminded priests that the essence of their vocation lies not in perfection but in humility, saying that “The Lord does not look for perfect priests, but for humble hearts.” He urged them to be “priests of love”—joyful and rooted in the awareness of being chosen and loved by God.
Speaking to men and women religious, Cardinal Parolin highlighted the Gospel call to “Ask, Seek, and Knock,” describing it as a way of life that embraces trust in God, discernment of His will, and total self-giving. In a region rich in cultural and religious diversity, he encouraged all present to be prophets of peace and unity, making visible the true fraternity found in Christ.
Cardinal Parolin’s visit served as a powerful reminder of the Church’s mission to foster hope, solidarity, and spiritual strength among communities across Northern Arabia
