KUWAIT CITY, April 13: In a solemn and spiritually uplifting scene overflowing with faith and hope, St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Kuwait held the Easter Mass on Saturday evening. Prayers and hymns rose, calling for peace and tranquility for all humanity.
According to a press release issued by the church, the Mass was held under special organizational arrangements. The church limited the service to priests and church staff, without the presence of parishioners or receiving well-wishers or guests, either during the Mass or the following morning. This decision was made in consideration of the current circumstances, in recognition of the national and humanitarian responsibility imposed by the current situation, and in line with a spirit of solidarity and awareness of ongoing events.
Father Bigoul Anba Bishoy began his message by emphasizing that this year’s celebration comes amid delicate circumstances in the region, which underscores the importance of adhering to the values of faith and hope. He said the State of Kuwait, throughout its history, has been able to overcome numerous challenges thanks to the wisdom of its leadership, the soundness of its approach, and its well-known balanced stance and values of tolerance, which have earned it respect and a distinguished position on both the humanitarian and international levels.
Father Bishoy affirmed that the Church offers its prayers for God to protect Kuwait and grant it continued security and stability. He expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (May God protect and preserve him), for his noble patronage of the values of tolerance and fraternity that characterize Kuwaiti society.
Father Bishoy also expressed his deep appreciation to His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al- Sabah (May God protect him), and to the government of the State of Kuwait, led by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, for their sincere efforts in consolidating the foundations of security and stability and enhancing the development process. He commended the wisdom of the Kuwaiti leadership and its balanced approach in dealing with current regional developments, emphasizing that this sound approach reflects a profound vision and a strong sense of responsibility in protecting the homeland and reinforces Kuwait’s position as an oasis of security and stability in a region witnessing rapidly evolving challenges.
The Patriarch of St. Mark’s Cathedral offered his greetings and appreciation to the souls of Kuwait’s martyrs, acknowledging their valuable sacrifices in protecting the homeland and preserving its security. Father Bishoy saluted the Kuwaiti Armed Forces and the National Guard for their role in defending Kuwait. He praised the efforts of the Ministry of Interior personnel and all security agencies, whose distinguished performance reflected a high level of readiness, vigilance, and commitment to the safety of all. Father Bishoy also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of various state institutions working in an integrated and harmonious manner to serve society and meet its needs. He affirmed that the unity of the home front and the unity of the leadership and the people represent the true protection against challenges, and reflect a deep sense of responsibility and belonging to this beloved nation. In his sermon titled “Tranquility” on this occasion, Father Bishoy emphasized that true tranquility is not tied to external circumstances, no matter how difficult they may be, but rather stems from within and from one’s trust in God.
He explained that a person can live in peace even during times of war and challenges, because their life is in God’s hands. Faith grants a person inner peace that makes them steadfast regardless of the changing circumstances. The future is not unknown to those who place their trust in God, because tomorrow is in God’s hands. Anxiety and fear dissipate when a person realizes that God is the Almighty who is capable of protecting them in all circumstances, and that everything God allows is for their good. Tranquility is a profound inner state stemming from faith, and those who hold fast to God fear neither circumstances nor the future, for God is stronger than all things and is the protector and guardian of human life. Father Bigoul Anba Bishoy concluded by offering a prayer that God protect the State of Kuwait, its leadership, and its people, and grant them continued security, stability, and prosperity, and that peace may prevail throughout the region and the world.
