Vatican Elevates Oldest Church on the Arabian Peninsula to Basilica Status
For the faithful in Bahrain, this announcement is more than an ecclesiastical decree; it acknowledges a spiritual home that has served generations of migrant Catholics from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Consecrated in 1940, the Sacred Heart Church is lovingly called the “mother church” of the Gulf.
Historic Opening and Recognition
Located in Manama, Bahrain, the Sacred Heart Church is the oldest church in the Gulf region outside Yemen. On November 1, 2025, it was formally elevated to the status of diocesan sanctuary, a designation that will be officially celebrated on November 8 by Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia.
Significance of the Sanctuary Status
The modest yet symbolic church has been a beacon of faith, resilience, and community under the desert sun for over eight decades. Its elevation to sanctuary status coincides with the church’s 85th anniversary, adding renewed meaning to its enduring devotion.
Privileges for Pilgrims
The Vicariate has announced that pilgrims attending the votive Mass of the Sacred Heart on Thursdays or Fridays may receive a partial indulgence. Those wishing to obtain this indulgence must fulfill the usual conditions of confession, communion, and prayer for the Pope’s intentions.
“For the faithful of Bahrain, the announcement is more than an ecclesial decree; it is the recognition of a spiritual home that has served generations of migrant Catholics from across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.”
“Consecrated in 1940, the Sacred Heart Church is affectionately known as the ‘mother church’ of the Gulf — a modest but deeply symbolic space where faith, resilience, and community have flourished under the desert sun.”
Summary: The Vatican's elevation of Bahrain’s Sacred Heart Church to diocesan sanctuary honors its historic role as a spiritual haven for diverse Catholic migrant communities across the Gulf region.