Capuchin Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Vicar Apostolic of Southern Arabia, has reiterated Pope Leo XIV’s urgent appeals for peace, emphasizing that arms and military conflict will never resolve the tensions gripping the Middle East. Overseeing the Catholic Church across the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen, Bishop Martinelli reflected on the experiences of the region’s more than one million Christians amidst the heightened tensions and war between the United States and Iran.
Despite the difficult security situation, Bishop Martinelli praised the resilience and solidarity of the local Christian faithful. Following the initial outbreak of conflict, the Vicariate implemented practical and spiritual measures, including increasing the number of Masses to manage gathering sizes while maintaining pastoral care. The community focused heavily on continuous prayer, assisting those who faced sudden unemployment due to the crisis, and adhering strictly to safety guidelines set by local authorities.
Living in predominantly Muslim nations with strict regulations on public religious proclamation, the Apostolic Vicar noted that personal witness remains a powerful force. While public preaching is restricted, Christians continue to bear witness to their faith through authentic daily relationships, mutual support, and constructive dialogue. Bishop Martinelli emphasized that no legal framework can prevent believers from living out the joy of the Gospel through active communion and peaceful coexistence.
Reflecting on Pope Leo XIV’s address at the Rimini Meeting, Bishop Martinelli highlighted the necessity of unity within an exceptionally diverse local Church that encompasses numerous languages, cultures, and liturgical rites. He strongly endorsed the Pope’s call to disarm words, minds, and nations, affirming that patient dialogue remains the only viable path to lasting peace and shared human dignity in the region.