FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Confraternity of Saint Arethas and Companions is a dedicated lay association committed to honoring Saint Arethas and his Companions. It fosters unity, charity, and spiritual growth among its members, rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and under the patronage of the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia.

Membership is open to baptized Christians who demonstrate a commitment to the mission of the Confraternity and actively participate in its activities. Members must adhere to the values and teachings of the Catholic Church.

To become a member, you need to:

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- Submit an Application: Complete a membership application form, which includes a statement of your commitment to the Confraternity’s mission and values.

- Approval: Unless there are grave reasons, you will be automatically welcomed as a member, according to the degree indicated in your application.
 

The Confraternity engages in a variety of activities, including:

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- Promoting devotion to Saint Arethas and his Companions through feast day celebrations, processions, and educational and cultural events.
- Organizing regular pilgrimages to Najran.
- Conducting charitable events and outreach programs.
- Facilitating prayer meetings, Bible studies, and spiritual retreats.
- Collaborating with local parishes and the broader Catholic community.
- Carrying out other activities as directed by the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia.
 

Members are encouraged to engage in daily personal prayer, participate in the sacraments, practice devotion to Saint Arethas and his Companions, penance, and guide others in their spiritual journeys.

The Confraternity recognizes and respects the authority of the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia. All activities and initiatives are conducted in harmony with his directives and guidance. An annual report detailing activities, financial status, and future plans is submitted to the Apostolic Vicar.

Yes, the Confraternity provides an effective avenue for those who have left the Gulf to continue their faith experience and remain united with the Apostolic Vicar, offering a supportive community rooted in Catholic values. They can organize local chapters of the Confraternity in places where they presently live.

Our mission is to bring Christ to the world through acts of kindness, prayerful devotion, evangelization, and mutual support in spiritual journeys, inspired by the lives of Saint Arethas and his Companions.

The Confraternity recognizes three levels of membership:

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- Full-Time Members: Fully participate in all aspects of the Confraternity's activities, including regular meetings, spiritual gatherings, and charitable works. They have voting rights and can hold leadership positions.

- Associate Members: Support the mission and activities but may have limited availability to participate regularly. They do not have voting rights but can contribute to specific projects and events.

- Honorary Members: Individuals who have made significant contributions to the Confraternity or its mission. They are recognized for their support and commitment but do not have voting rights or obligations to participate regularly.
 

To establish a local chapter, follow these steps:

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- Gather Interested Members: Identify a group of baptized Christians interested in forming a local chapter.
- Submit a Petition: Submit a petition to the Council of Elders, outlining your group’s commitment to the Confraternity’s mission and values, along with signatures of the founding members.
- Approval and Guidance: The Council of Elders, in consultation with the Apostolic Vicar, will review your petition. If approved, you will receive guidance and support to establish your local chapter.
- Local Leadership: Elect local leaders to organize activities and manage the chapter in alignment with the Confraternity’s overall mission.
 

The Confraternity is built on values and charisms inspired by Saint Arethas and his Companions, including:

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- Charity and Service: Helping the marginalized and those in need.
- Spiritual Growth: Engaging in regular prayer, sacramental life, and reflection.
- Unity and Community: Building a supportive, faith-based network.
- Evangelization: Sharing the Gospel with joy and humility.
- Cultural Enrichment: Celebrating religious and cultural traditions.
- Fidelity to the Apostolic Vicar: Upholding his spiritual guidance and direction.
- Commitment to Ecumenism and Inter-religious Dialogue: Promoting unity among Christian denominations and interfaith understanding.
 

The Confraternity is led by a Council of Elders, which includes a President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and three regular officers. The Council is elected by the members every three years and meets regularly to plan and coordinate activities. The Apostolic Vicar provides spiritual guidance and oversight.

The Confraternity of Saint Arethas and Companions is distinct in its specific devotion to Saint Arethas and his Companions, its strong emphasis on supporting former Gulf residents in their continued faith journey, and its unique relationship with the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia. This focus on serving a geographically diverse membership while maintaining strong ties to its spiritual roots in Northern Arabia sets it apart from other confraternities.

Financial management is conducted with transparency and accountability. The Treasurer prepares an annual budget approved by the Council of Elders. All expenses and transactions are documented and reported at regular meetings.