ShareKUWAIT: While celebrating Christmas may look different for expatriates in Kuwait compared to their home countries, the essence remains unchanged. On a much-anticipated December morning, the streets near the Catholic church came alive with groups from diverse backgrounds, all making their way to a shared place of worship—a space where traditions are renewed, and cherished memories find new meaning.
Father Gasper Parish, an Indian priest at the church, stood at the entrance warmly greeting attendees. “Although we are far from our homelands, we don’t feel as though we’re missing home. (The church’s) environment was created to make people feel comfortable and at peace with the Lord. Ultimately, God is one,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to the people of Kuwait for their hospitality, emphasizing how their acceptance enables expatriates to “strengthen their faith” through this church, which has stood as an “icon” of unity and devotion for 63 years.
Among the worshippers was Homa Salim, elegantly dressed in a vibrant red Pakistani sari. She walked holding hands with her husband, Arslan Yousaf, after their prayer. “I do miss my family back home,” she admitted, “but the freedom to practice my religion here reminds me of the freedom I had in Pakistan.”
She added: “In Kuwait, we can celebrate our culture and traditions openly.” Homa also highlighted the spiritual fulfillment and community connection she felt during the festivities. “It’s similar to the unity Muslims experience during occasions such as Eid Al-Fitr, where families and friends come together after prayer to share blessings,” she explained.
Christmas for Cathuranga, a Filipino domestic worker, stirred a mix of joy and longing. With tears in her eyes, she shared: “I cry when I pray because it’s deeply spiritual. I only get to come to church once a year, on Christmas.” She explained that her employer rarely grants her a day off, citing the expense of traveling from Jahra. Despite living in a predominantly Muslim country, Cathuranga felt a sense of unity with the local community. “When I’m at my employer’s house, I hear my madame reciting from the Quran — ‘Bismillah Bismillah.’ It reminds me that we all worship one God.”
Inside the church that morning, the sound of carols sung in diverse accents echoed through the hall, accompanied by the vibrant display of traditional attire and the exchange of heartfelt greetings—a harmonious blend of cultures coming together to create something uniquely beautiful. The church hosted multiple masses throughout the day, conducted in over 15 different languages, reflecting the rich diversity of its community.
