Prayers for peace and calls to protect the kingdom and the wider region were offered during an Easter service held last night at Sacred Heart Church, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the region.
Organised by This Is Bahrain, the service highlighted that even in challenging times, citizens and residents can come together in prayer for the security of the homeland, reaffirming that Bahrain remains strong and resilient.
The service was attended by scores of Catholics at the premises and was also broadcast online.
This Is Bahrain chairperson Betsy Mathieson praised the government’s role in ensuring the safety of citizens and residents, highlighting in particular the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad.
She commended his courage and steadfast resolve in the face of challenges, noting that his calm and decisive leadership continues to safeguard Bahrain’s unity, freedoms and future.
“In the face of threats to our homeland and to our precious, peaceful way of life we acknowledge with deep admiration the courage and bravery of His Majesty,” she said.
“His leadership in challenging times reassures us that Bahrain remains secure, resilient and guided by wisdom and compassion.”
Ms Mathieson emphasised that even during times of regional tension, churches remain open, prayers continue, and voices rise in peace.
“This is a powerful testament to His Majesty’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding our right to religious freedom and protecting our places of worship,” she said, extending sincere appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and to the government for their tireless efforts to ensure stability and security.
She also expressed her appreciation towards the Bahrain Defence Force, National Guard, Interior Ministry, Civil Defence and all the volunteers who selflessly give their time and service to keep Bahrain safe.
Ms Mathieson further acknowledged the contributions of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and Supreme Council for Women (SCW) president, whose words ‘offer hope and encouragement, especially to women’.
Addressing the expatriate community, she affirmed their deep connection to Bahrain, describing the nation as a shared home built on unity, faith, trust, and hope.
“This is our home,” she said. “We are one family. Bahrain is united in faith, trust, hope and deed. We are not leaving, we are staying, because this is where our hearts belong. We stand firmly behind His Majesty. Our faith is stronger than fear. Our unity is stronger than any threat. And, our love for the kingdom will never be diminished.”
Bahrain is united, and together, we stand in faith, love and hope,” she said.