Papal Nuncio bids Kuwait farewell

The Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Eugene Martin Nugent, and the Czech Ambassador, Juraj Chmiel, with members of the Diplomatic Corps and guests during the event.

Speaking at the event, Czech Ambassador to Kuwait Juraj Chmiel said, “Today, we remember a man who was attacked and killed by his brother, Boleslav the Cruel, while on his way to attend morning mass.” He disclosed that Duke Wenceslas died on Sept 28, 935.

“Following his death, the Holy Roman Emperor Otto I conferred upon him the title of King, and three years later, he was canonized,” the Ambassador added. He said Saint Wenceslas was known for his piety, virtue, wisdom and intelligence, indicating that he devoted himself to spreading the Christian faith and showed great concern for the poor, the sick, widows and orphans through charitable works. He then stressed the importance of remembering figures, such as Saint Wenceslas, and preserving the values they represented, particularly amid the tensions and conflicts the world is witnessing today. He pointed out that the current conflict in the region has expanded beyond the borders of the Gulf. He said Kuwait has been subjected to Iranian attacks for three months, and that the region is currently living under a very fragile ceasefire.

“We should all strive to be more like Saint Wenceslas, even in a small way, by becoming kinder, more compassionate, and more mindful of others. Let us take this opportunity to celebrate everything that is good and humane,” he asserted. He revealed that “the feast day of Saint Wenceslas falls on Sept 28, but I deliberately asked the Papal Nuncio that we celebrate this occasion in August because, by Sept 28, he will have already begun his duties as the Papal Nuncio to the Czech Republic. I must admit that I feel sadness and happiness at the same time. I am saddened that our Papal Nuncio will be leaving Kuwait, yet I am also pleased that my country will be welcoming such an outstanding diplomat and remarkable personality.”

On the other hand, the Papal Nuncio to Kuwait, Archbishop Eugene, said, “We are gathered in this beautiful church, Our Lady of the Island Church, among friends, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the Czech community, and the parishioners and faithful of this church. I thank God for the years I have spent in Kuwait. I am grateful for the people I have met, the friendships we have built, the faith we have shared, the hospitality I have received, and the many moments of grace that I will continue to cherish long after I leave this land.” The Papal Nuncio described his experience in Kuwait as one of the most meaningful experiences of his service to the Church. He said that his mission in Kuwait strengthened his awareness of the universality of the Church, despite the diversity of languages, cultures and rites, because faith and spirituality unite all believers. He added, “As I prepare to leave Kuwait, I am especially grateful that one of my final celebrations here will take place under the mantle of Our Lady of the Island Church. I entrust to the Virgin Mary the people I am leaving behind, the friendships that have enriched my life, and the Church in Kuwait and throughout the Gulf.”