By Rabih Kallas
Special to The Times Kuwait
As Archbishop Eugene M. Nugent prepares to conclude his mission as Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, he leaves behind not only a distinguished diplomatic legacy but also a deep affection for a country he now considers his second home.
Arriving in Kuwait in February 2021 amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Archbishop Nugent’s tenure coincided with one of the most challenging periods in recent global history. Yet, through those years, he witnessed the resilience of communities, the strength of faith, and the enduring power of dialogue and coexistence.
In this exclusive end-of-mission interview, the Archbishop reflects on his experiences, the growth of interfaith dialogue, the contribution of Kuwait’s diverse communities, and the lessons he will carry with him as he embarks on his next assignment as Apostolic Nuncio to the Czech Republic.
A Mission Marked by Faith and Friendship
Looking back on his five years in Kuwait, Archbishop Nugent describes the experience as a profound personal, pastoral and spiritual blessing.
“When I arrived in Kuwait during the difficult days of the pandemic, I did not fully know what lay ahead,” he recalls. “What I discovered was a country characterized by generosity, openness and a deep respect for human dignity.”
The Archbishop says one of the greatest sources of inspiration during his mission came from Kuwait’s Catholic community, largely composed of expatriate workers who have left their families and homelands in search of better opportunities.
“Their resilience, devotion and trust in God have been truly remarkable,” he says. “Their faith has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration.”
Among the memories he treasures most are the friendships he developed with Kuwaitis, diplomats, government officials, religious leaders and members of the wider community.
“Saying goodbye is not easy because Kuwait has become a second home to me,” he admits.
Navigating a World in Crisis
Archbishop Nugent’s tenure unfolded against the backdrop of global and regional upheaval, including the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating geopolitical tensions.
He recalls how the pandemic fundamentally changed the way religious communities operated. “We had to find new ways of maintaining pastoral care while protecting public health,” he says. “It required creativity, adaptability and perseverance.”
One particularly memorable moment came when diplomatic protocols themselves had to adapt to pandemic restrictions. “I remember presenting copies of my Letters of Credence to the Foreign Minister of Bahrain through a Zoom call,” he says with a smile.
Beyond the pandemic, ongoing regional tensions reinforced the importance of peacebuilding and dialogue.
“In such circumstances, the mission of the Church is not political but deeply human and spiritual,” he explains. “We seek to support people, encourage dialogue, promote understanding and pray for peace.”
These experiences strengthened his conviction that humanity’s future depends on cooperation, solidarity and mutual respect.
Kuwait’s Model of Coexistence
Throughout his diplomatic career, Archbishop Nugent has served in numerous countries, giving him a unique perspective on intercultural and interreligious relations.
Asked what distinguishes Kuwait, he points to its remarkable ability to accommodate diversity while preserving social harmony.
“Kuwait has developed a unique model of coexistence where people from many nations, cultures and religions live and work together while contributing to the country’s development and prosperity,” he says.
What stands out most, he notes, is the genuine spirit of hospitality that permeates society. “There is a sincere willingness to engage respectfully with others. This openness creates an environment where trust can flourish.”
At a time when many parts of the world are experiencing polarization and division, Archbishop Nugent believes Kuwait offers an important example. “It demonstrates that diversity can be a source of enrichment rather than conflict.”
Advancing Interfaith Dialogue
One of the defining themes of Archbishop Nugent’s mission has been the advancement of interreligious dialogue across the Gulf region.
He identifies the historic visit of Pope Francis to Bahrain in November 2022 as one of the most significant milestones of his tenure.
“That visit sent a powerful message that dialogue, fraternity and mutual respect are essential foundations for building a more peaceful world,” he says.
According to the Archbishop, recent years have witnessed growing engagement among religious leaders and institutions throughout the region.
“Dialogue does not require us to abandon our differences,” he explains. “Rather, it teaches us how to respect one another while working together for the common good.”
He believes that in a region often affected by political and social tensions, dialogue remains one of the most effective instruments for fostering peace, stability and understanding.
Serving a Diverse Catholic Community
Kuwait is home to one of the Gulf’s most vibrant and diverse Catholic populations, bringing together faithful from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East.
For Archbishop Nugent, this diversity represents both a blessing and a challenge.
“The Church in Kuwait is extraordinarily multicultural,” he says. “Our challenge has been ensuring that pastoral care is available to people in their own languages and traditions.”
He points to the need for additional places of worship, particularly in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh (Abbasiya), where a large Catholic population resides.
“There is an urgent need for a church in that area to better serve the faithful,” he notes.
Despite these challenges, the Archbishop highlights several achievements during his tenure.
He praises the dedication of priests, religious communities and volunteers who continue to support parish life throughout Kuwait.
Among the most significant milestones was the visit of Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, in January 2026 for the elevation of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi to the status of a Minor Basilica.
“This was a historic moment,” Archbishop Nugent says. “It became the first Minor Basilica on the Arabian Peninsula and brought immense joy to Catholics across the region.”
Kuwait’s Message to the World
Through his interactions with Kuwaiti leaders, officials and representatives of various faiths, Archbishop Nugent believes the country offers a valuable lesson to the international community. “Kuwait demonstrates that dialogue and mutual respect are not merely ideals; they can be lived realities.”
He commends the country’s humanitarian efforts and commitment to regional stability, describing them as widely respected both regionally and internationally.
“Peace is built through relationships, respect and a willingness to listen,” he says. “Kuwait exemplifies these principles.”
Lessons Learned from Kuwait
On a personal level, Archbishop Nugent says the people of Kuwait have taught him invaluable lessons that he will carry into the next chapter of his diplomatic service.
“Above all, I have learned the importance of hospitality and personal relationships,” he reflects. He speaks warmly of the country’s strong family values, generosity and sense of community. “I have admired the patience and dignity with which people face life’s challenges,” he says.
The Archbishop also emphasizes the importance Kuwaitis place on family life and social solidarity. “These are values that leave a lasting impression and that I will carry with me wherever I go.”
A Heartfelt Farewell
As he prepares to depart, Archbishop Nugent expresses deep gratitude to Kuwait’s leadership and people. He extends his appreciation to His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince, government officials and all those who supported his mission throughout the years.
To the people of Kuwait, his message is one of sincere thanks. “I will never forget the kindness, generosity and openness that I experienced here.”
He fondly recalls sharing Iftar meals during Ramadan, participating in diwaniyas and enjoying traditional kashta gatherings experiences that allowed him to better understand Kuwaiti culture and hospitality.
To expatriate communities, especially Catholics, he offers encouragement. “Continue contributing positively to the life of this country while remaining faithful to your values and traditions.”
Looking Ahead
Archbishop Nugent’s next diplomatic mission will take him to the Czech Republic, where he will serve as Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See. While he looks forward to the new assignment, he admits that leaving Kuwait is bittersweet.
“Diplomatic assignments come and go, but friendships remain,” he says.To his successor, he offers simple but meaningful advice:
“Listen carefully, build relationships, appreciate the richness of the local culture, and continue fostering dialogue and mutual understanding. The foundations are already strong.”
A Final Reflection
Asked to summarize Kuwait in just a few words after five years of service, Archbishop Eugene M. Nugent pauses briefly before offering a description that captures the essence of his experience:
“A land of hospitality, friendship and hope.”
For the departing Apostolic Nuncio, Kuwait is more than a diplomatic posting. It is a place where traditions and modernity coexist, where diversity is embraced, and where people from different backgrounds can live together in mutual respect.
As he leaves for his new mission, Archbishop Nugent’s final prayer is simple yet profound:
“May God continue to bless Kuwait, its leadership and its people with peace, prosperity and harmony. May the spirit of friendship and dialogue continue to flourish for generations to come.”
