KUWAIT: Christian communities across Kuwait celebrated Christmas with prayers, church services and family gatherings, underscoring the country’s long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and coexistence. Churches in the capital and various governorates held special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services attended by worshippers from diverse nationalities and denominations. Clergymen delivered sermons focusing on peace, compassion and goodwill, while hymns and carols filled congregations in an atmosphere of reverence and celebration.
Following the services, families and friends gathered to exchange greetings and share traditional meals. Several expatriate communities organized modest celebrations in line with local customs and regulations. Festive decorations adorned churches, private residences and selected community venues, contributing to the holiday spirit. Many Christian residents expressed appreciation for Kuwait’s culture of mutual respect, noting that they are able to observe religious occasions freely and safely. “Christmas in Kuwait is a time of spiritual reflection and togetherness,” said Pastor Millicent Rerri, adding that the country’s welcoming environment allows different cultures and faiths to celebrate side by side.
Christians attend Christmas eve mass at one of Kuwait’s churches. — Submitted photo
Kuwait hosts a diverse expatriate population, including Catholic, Anglican, Orthodox, Coptic, Protestant and Evangelical communities. Churches operate under official licenses and coordinate closely with authorities to organize religious activities. Religious leaders praised Kuwait’s leadership for fostering an environment in which different faiths can practice freely and securely. Clergymen commended policies that promote mutual respect and protect the rights of religious minorities, describing Kuwait as a model of coexistence in the region. “Kuwait has consistently demonstrated that respect for diversity strengthens society. We thank the leadership for promoting religious tolerance and peace,” Pastor Innocent Morgan told Kuwait Times.
Emmanuel Gharib, pastor and chairman of the National Evangelical Church of Kuwait, extended Christmas greetings to Christians worldwide, wishing them a New Year filled with blessings, peace and goodwill. He described Kuwait as a land of love, peace and tolerance and prayed for the continued success and protection of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
Gharib noted that Christmas celebrations in Kuwait include church services, hymns, family gatherings, gift exchanges and traditional sweets, reflecting values of love and family unity. He also expressed hope for peace around the world and welcomed the recent government decision allowing hotels to display Christmas trees, describing it as a positive gesture reflecting Kuwait’s spirit of openness and coexistence. Authorities provided heightened security around churches and gathering areas throughout the holiday period. Police and security personnel coordinated with church officials to ensure smooth celebrations, with worshippers expressing gratitude for their professionalism and support. Officials reaffirmed that safeguarding religious events forms part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to public safety and national unity.
As celebrations concluded, messages of goodwill and gratitude were exchanged among communities, reinforcing Kuwait’s reputation for tolerance, stability and respect for religious diversity. “As residents from various faiths share in the celebrations, this Christmas serves as a reminder of the nation’s values of unity, tolerance and respect for all communities,” Pastor Innocent added.
Christmas and New Year traditions have a long history in the Middle East and continue to be observed by Christian communities across the region. In Kuwait, celebrations reflect a variety of customs shaped by denomination, work schedules and community practices. From Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day, church services and special liturgies, including midnight Mass, remain central to commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ (PBUH) and the festive season.
