Christians in the UAE Seek Peace Amidst Iran War Disruptions

As the Iran war escalates, Christians in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have adapted their Easter celebrations to prioritize safety while maintaining their faith. During a mass at St Paul’s Catholic Church, worshippers were interrupted by mobile phone alerts warning of missile threats, prompting a temporary pause in the service. Despite these challenges, parishioners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather and deliver messages of hope and solidarity.

Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, addressed the congregation at St Therese Church, emphasizing the unifying power of faith in times of conflict. He remarked, “In these days of war, we experience the absurdity of violence that does not solve problems but creates and aggravates them.” His message resonated with attendees, who sought comfort in their community during a tumultuous period.

Many attendees at various churches in the UAE expressed that the ongoing conflict had not deterred them from observing Easter traditions. George, a parishioner at St Paul's Church, noted the church's full attendance, stating, “We don’t feel we need to worry. We still feel safe and secure here.” Maria, a Lebanese Christian, highlighted the emotional significance of this year's mass, sharing her longing for peace amid the turmoil affecting her home country.

In Dubai, however, churches have closed to the public as a precautionary measure, leading many families to adapt by participating in limited online services. Nadia Shaffow, an Iraqi national, shared her family's tradition of cooking and distributing harees soup during Easter, emphasizing the importance of community support even from a distance.

Church leaders and community members have consistently called for peace and unity. Bishop Martinelli's message underscored the need for love to prevail over adversity, while many worshippers echoed similar sentiments in their prayers for peace. The emotional weight of the situation has prompted individuals to reflect on the significance of community and faith during these challenging times.

Despite the resilience shown by the Christian community, some individuals expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict's impact on their lives. The anxiety stemming from separation from family members and the uncertainty surrounding safety has led to heightened emotional distress among many worshippers. The need for prayer and support has become increasingly vital as families navigate these challenges.

• “In these days of war, we experience the absurdity of violence that does not solve problems but creates and aggravates them,” — Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia

• “We don’t feel we need to worry. We still feel safe and secure here, and we understand that the loud blasts we hear are interceptions,” — George, Parishioner at St Paul's Church

• “We came here to pray on this holy day, to pray for peace,” — Maria, Lebanese Christian

• “I follow an Iraqi tradition of my mother, cooked the harees overnight and distributed it to many friends in the morning,” — Nadia Shaffow, Iraqi National

As the situation continues to evolve, the Christian community in the UAE remains committed to fostering hope and solidarity, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.