All Catholic masses in Dubai have been put on hold due to rising security concerns linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East, with church authorities citing the safety of parishioners as the primary reason.
St. Francis of Assisi Church in Jebel Ali announced that all services are cancelled until further notice, in line with government directives. The area has reportedly been affected by missile and drone activity connected to the ongoing conflict.
Church officials have advised parishioners to avoid visiting church premises, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety and community wellbeing.
Similarly, St. Mary’s Catholic Church confirmed the suspension of its services, noting that the Good Friday mass will be streamed online to allow worshippers to participate remotely. The disruptions coincide with Holy Week, one of the most important periods in the Christian calendar leading up to Easter Sunday.
On the international front, Pope Leo XVI has been actively engaging with world leaders to advocate for peace. He held separate phone conversations with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, focusing on the humanitarian consequences of ongoing conflicts.
During his discussion with Herzog, the Pope highlighted the importance of reopening diplomatic channels to achieve a lasting resolution in the Middle East while stressing the need to protect civilians and uphold international law.
In talks with Zelensky, the focus was on the war in Ukraine, with both leaders emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid and efforts to secure the release of prisoners. Zelensky also noted that attacks on Ukraine persisted during their discussions, highlighting the challenges in achieving a ceasefire.
The Vatican stated that the Pope expressed hope that international cooperation could help end hostilities and establish a just and lasting peace. The suspension of Easter services in Dubai underscores the broader impact of the conflict on civilian life, as security concerns continue to affect communities throughout the region.