The Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia (AVOSA) paid tribute to its outgoing bishop as it cited the contributions of Bishop-Emeritus Paul Hinder in helping spread the faith in the Middle East.
Bishop Hinder, AVOSA said, served the faithful in the Middle East and attended to their spiritual needs faithfully over the years while helping spread Christianity in the predominantly Muslim country.
“As a Missionary-Bishop, you have encouraged us to step out without fear, as a pilgrim people into the mission. As our leader, you have led us always with a heart for Christ and Christ’s people. You bear witness to the spirit within you, and you have led us with humility, wisdom and grace,” said Vicar General Filipino Franciscan Capuchin Fr. Troy delos Santos over Radio Veritas.
Bishop Hinder helped unite the faithful in the Middle East despite differences in beliefs as he gave everyone a chance to be heard. The Church leader-led AVOSA for 18 years and looked after the spiritual needs of more than a million Roman Catholics who comprise 2.3 percent of the 43 million total population.
Meanwhile, Fr. delos Santos expressed his full support and cooperation to Bishop Paolo Martinelli who replaced Bishop Hinder as the new bishop of AVOSA.
In his message, Bishop Martinelli stressed the importance of unity in the Church guided by the call of His Holiness Pope Francis.
Filipino migrants in the Middle East actively participate in the activities of AVOSA such as during the Papal visit in 2019.