KUWAIT: Christians across Kuwait came together over the weekend to commemorate Good Friday and celebrate Easter Sunday — two of the most significant observances in the Christian calendar. Marking these holy days with reverence and joy, the faithful attended special services, community events and family gatherings that reflected the country’s religious diversity and commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Despite being a predominantly Muslim nation, Kuwait continues to uphold its long-standing tradition of religious tolerance, allowing Christian residents — comprising nationalities including Filipinos, Indians, Egyptians, Lebanese and Western and African expatriates — to observe their faith freely and openly.
Churches across Kuwait, including the National Evangelical Church of Kuwait, Holy Family Cathedral, Coptic Church and Life Abundant International Church (LAIF) hosted services beginning on Good Friday and culminating with Easter Sunday celebrations. Services were conducted in multiple languages including English, Arabic, Tagalog and Malayalam, underscoring the multicultural makeup of the Christian population in the country.
In his Easter message, Bishop Jonathan Njoku of LAIF encouraged believers to remain united in faith and compassion. “Good Friday and Easter are celebrations of life triumphing over death and light conquering darkness. It is a time for Christians to reaffirm their commitment to hope, love and charity,” he told the congregation.
Security personnel deployed
Security personnel were deployed around church premises to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of services, with authorities coordinating closely with church leaders. In addition to religious observances, many Christian families marked the occasion with traditional meals, gift exchanges and cultural events. Community groups organized egg hunts and family-oriented festivities for children, adding to the joyful spirit of Easter. While Easter is not a public holiday in Kuwait, some employers offered flexible working hours to allow Christian employees to attend church and spend time with loved ones.
Tolerance and respect
Christian residents expressed gratitude to the Kuwaiti government and people for fostering a climate of tolerance and respect. “Kuwait is one of the most peaceful countries in the world. We thank the leadership for upholding religious freedom. Easter is deeply meaningful for us and we are grateful to celebrate it here,” said Filipino evangelist Ethan Angelo. “Actually, I love celebrating Easter in Kuwait. It is peaceful here. We pray that God will grant us more blissful days ahead,” added Syrian Christian Mary Thomas, who was celebrating at the Catholic Church in Kuwait City with her friends.
Good Friday, which Christians believe commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ (PBUH), was observed with solemn services featuring scripture readings, hymns, and meditative prayers. Many congregants participated in fasting and quiet contemplation, fostering a reflective atmosphere within the churches. Easter Sunday, which Christians believe symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ (PBUH), was marked with vibrant services filled with music, floral decorations and messages of hope and renewal. Churches were adorned with symbols of new life and congregants came together in celebration of faith and the promise of spiritual rebirth.
Easter has become a recognized occasion within Kuwait’s expatriate communities. Officially recognized churches host services and activities throughout Holy Week, including Palm Sunday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil. These traditions, along with community celebrations, highlight Kuwait’s commitment to religious inclusion and cultural harmony. The Easter observances once again reflected Kuwait’s role as a welcoming home for diverse communities, where faith is practiced in peace and mutual respect.
