In the heart of Dubai, the towering spires of St. Mary’s Catholic Church stood silent this Easter Sunday. Usually, the grand church would be buzzing with activity, its pews filled with worshippers, and its air resonating with the echoes of the Easter Mass. But this year, the church doors remained closed, its silence a stark reminder of the war raging thousands of miles away.

A Global Reach, A Local Impact

Malta’s deep Catholic roots mean that Easter is more than just a holiday; it’s a time of reflection, family, and community. The cancellation of Easter Masses in Dubai, a city home to over 200,000 Maltese expats, has sent ripples of concern and solidarity across the Mediterranean, back to the shores of Malta.

Dubai’s Maltese community, like many others around the world, has been closely following the developments in Ukraine. The war’s impact on Easter celebrations in Dubai is a poignant reminder of the global reach of this conflict and its effect on Maltese communities abroad.

The Echo of Silence

Father Joe Borg, a Maltese priest serving in Dubai, explained, “The cancellation of Easter Masses is not just about missing a service. It’s about the absence of community, the silence where there should be joy, and the echo of a conflict that’s thousands of miles away but feels so close.”

Father Joe’s words resonate with many Maltese expats in Dubai. They’re used to celebrating Easter together, with traditional Maltese food, family gatherings, and church services. This year, they’re finding new ways to connect, to share their faith, and to show solidarity with those affected by the war.

Malta’s Response: Solidarity and Support

Back in Malta, the government and local communities have been rallying around the Ukrainian people. From fundraising efforts to welcoming Ukrainian refugees, the spirit of solidarity is strong. Maltese expats in Dubai are echoing this sentiment, finding ways to support Ukraine from afar.

Malta’s Ambassador to the UAE, Pierre Clone, has been actively engaging with the Maltese community in Dubai, encouraging them to support Ukraine. He said, “The cancellation of Easter Masses in Dubai is a stark reminder of the human cost of this war. But it’s also a reminder of our shared humanity and our duty to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

In the heart of Dubai, the silence of St. Mary’s Church this Easter Sunday is a stark reminder of the war in Ukraine. But it’s also a testament to the global reach of Malta’s communities and their commitment to solidarity and support.

As we look ahead, let’s remember that our actions, no matter how small, can make a difference. Let’s continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, to support them in any way we can, and to hope for a peaceful Easter next year.