Kuwait will always be your second home

29/08/2026

As His Excellency Archbishop Eugene Martin Nugent concludes his mission in Kuwait and prepares for his new assignment as Apostolic Nuncio to the Czech Republic, I would like to pay tribute to someone who has become a familiar and much respected presence in Kuwait over the past five years. Archbishop Nugent arrived in Kuwait in 2021, at a difficult time for much of the world.

During the years that followed, he became well known within the diplomatic and Catholic communities and among people from many different backgrounds. He had a very natural way of dealing with people. He listened, welcomed others easily and was always approachable. Before his arrival, I believe many people in Kuwait were not very familiar with the Apostolic Nunciature or the role it played.

Archbishop Nugent helped change that. In many ways, he brought the walls down and opened the doors. He welcomed people from different walks of life into the Nunciature and made it a place where people could meet, talk and feel comfortable. He showed that it was not only a diplomatic mission, but also a place where friendships and human connections could grow. I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and one thing I particularly appreciated was his interest in young people.

He made time to attend youth events, meet young Kuwaitis and encourage their initiatives. Sometimes simply showing up, listening and taking an interest meant a great deal, and this is something I personally saw during the years I knew him. His time in Kuwait also saw an important development for the Catholic community.

The Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi was elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica, the first in the Arabian Peninsula. In January 2026, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, visited Kuwait for the occasion. It was a special moment for Catholics in Kuwait. Archbishop Nugent has described Kuwait as his “second home.” It is a simple phrase, but one that says a great deal about the relationship he developed with the country and its people.

As he leaves for the Czech Republic, I wish Archbishop Nugent every success in his new mission. He leaves behind many people who will remember him not only for the position he held, but for the person they came to know. Thank you, Archbishop Eugene, for these years in Kuwait. Your second home will always be ready to welcome you back.

By Nasser Al-Hajeri