“I, an Indian Catholic in Arabia, and faith that flourishes in unexpected places”

by Renato Dean D’Costa*

In a new episode of AsiaNews' reportage, the personal story of faith of the communications officer of the Vicariate of Northern Arabia: from Mumbai to Bahrain, a journey that has not been without challenges and difficulties, but which has also been a ‘grace’ and a “gift” to ‘bear witness to others’. And the hope of ‘remaining rooted in my Christian identity in this land of Arabia’.

Manama (AsiaNews) - ‘My prayer is to remain a witness to the miracle of my life, and my experience as a Catholic who grew up in Bahrain shows that faith can flourish even in unexpected places.’ In the fifth instalment of AsiaNews' reportage from the countries of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait), we share the personal testimony of Renato Dean D'Costa, head of communications for the vicariate. Born in Mumbai, India, in September 1991, with a younger brother and a family with a strong Catholic tradition, he moved to the Gulf kingdom at an early age, where he lived and cultivated his faith in a predominantly Muslim land.

Over time, there have been challenges and difficulties, but his Christian roots and belonging to the Church are the foundations on which he has built his life, overcoming the darkest moments. As in 2020 when, as he recounts, he risked dying from Covid-19, with his recovery becoming not only ‘a personal grace, but also a gift to be witnessed to others’. ‘I hope to remain rooted in my Christian identity in this land of Arabia, especially in Bahrain, which has now become my adopted country. My journey,’ he says, ‘has taught me that faith needs sincerity.’

Below is the full story:

Growing up as an Indian Catholic from Mumbai, I was raised in Bahrain from a very young age, which is why Bahrain truly feels like home. Attending a local Indian school alongside classmates from many different cultures and religions taught me early on the meaning of diversity.

Living as a Christian in the Gulf means living my faith with awareness. While public expressions like church bells or street processions are not part of the culture here as they are in Goa, the need for a strong connection to the Church as a spiritual home is important. My association with the Youth Group has been key in keeping me rooted in my faith.

As an expat, the parish became more than just a place of worship, it was a place of belonging, uniting people from diverse countries and languages. Moments like Sunday Mass, catechism classes, and parish events provided grounding. Bahrain's commitment to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence has made my experience deeply positive. This atmosphere of harmony allows me to practice my faith while feeling completely at home. It is a unique grace to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in the heart of the Middle East, which is celebrated in Goa in December.

I remember a turning point in my faith journey that occurred in Goa during the 2020 pandemic. Succumbing to Covid-19, which nearly cost me my life on my birthday, was a profound experience. Looking back at my recovery in 2020, I realize that being a survivor was not just a personal gift, but a gift to share my experience. Having witnessed this wonder, I now share my testimony with my Youth Group and others who have lost touch with their faith, letting them know the power of our Lord. I speak of the stillness I found when everything else was stripped away by illness. Despite my personal flaws, it brought me closer to God and motivates me to constantly strive to be my best self.

I was blessed to visit the Jubilee Year twice, first with the communications group and later with the youth. It was a memorable experience to participate in such a grand celebration, visiting the Holy Doors, going for pilgrimages, interacting with youth and individuals from around the world.

As the Jubilee Year concludes, I look toward the future with hope for continued growth in faith. I hope to remain rooted in my Christian identity. My journey has taught me that faith needs sincerity. My prayer is to remain a witness to the miracle of my life and my experience as a Catholic raised in Bahrain proves that faith can flourish even in unexpected places.

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