Extraordinary Jubilee of St. Arethas
and Companions
24 October 2023 - 23 October 2024
in commemoration of the 1500th anniversary of their martyrdom

To celebrate this Extraordinary Jubilee, special events and activities were held throughout the Arabian Peninsula, allowing the faithful to engage in acts of devotion and reflection. Among the most significant was the pilgrimage to the two cathedrals in the Gulf: the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Bahrain and St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Abu Dhabi. Holy Doors were ceremonially opened at both cathedrals, symbolizing the entrance into a time of grace and spiritual renewal.

Pilgrims who visited the two cathedrals were granted the grace of a Plenary Indulgence, a remission of temporal punishment due to sins already forgiven. By passing through the Holy Doors, participating in the sacraments, and performing acts of charity and mercy, the faithful experienced profound spiritual renewal during this sacred time.

The Jubilee also featured a series of liturgical celebrations, catechetical programs, and cultural events aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the martyrs’ legacy and their relevance to contemporary faith. Masses, processions, and prayer services were held to honor St. Arethas and his Companions, inspiring the faithful to emulate their courage and steadfastness in their own lives.

This section is an archive of the Jubilee, recalling significant moments in the year-long festivities.