The conclusion of the Extraordinary Jubilee of St. Arethas and Companions marks yet another significant milestone for the Church in the Arabian Peninsula. The Holy Year, in commemoration of the 1500th anniversary of the martyrdom of St. Arethas and his Companions, has been a time of spiritual renewal and will culminate in a solemn closing ceremony at Our Lady of Arabia Cathedral in Awali, Bahrain, on October 25, 2024. The celebration will highlight the closing of the Holy Door, followed by a solemn thanksgiving Mass presided over by Bishop Aldo Berardi.

The Church in the Arabian Peninsula expresses deep gratitude to the Holy Father for designating this Extraordinary Jubilee, which has reinvigorated the Church’s missionary spirit and provided an opportunity to reconnect with its ancient Christian roots.

With the presence of the sacred relics of St. Arethas, countless faithful have received blessings, and many were granted the plenary indulgence approved by the Holy See for this occasion.

As the Jubilee journeyed through the various parishes of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia, a deep devotion to the Martyrs of Najran emerged. The lives of St. Arethas and his Companions, whose unwavering faith led them to offer their lives for Christ, resonated deeply with many.

Pilgrimages to Najran, the site of the martyrdom, provided the faithful with an intimate connection to this ancient witness of faith. Pilgrims stood on the very grounds where the Christian martyrs courageously gave their lives, offering a profound spiritual experience.

This Jubilee year has become a moment of grace, inspiring the faithful and deepening the present Church in Arabia’s bond with its spiritual heritage. As the celebrations draw to a close, the faithful are encouraged to carry forward the lessons of this Holy Year with hearts renewed in faith, solidarity, and commitment to Christ’s mission in this region and in the world.