Watch: 1970s church in Abu Dhabi celebrates first Christmas in new building

Abu Dhabi: One of the oldest and most revered churches in Abu Dhabi celebrated its first Christmas at its newly constructed building, marking a momentous occasion for the Indian Orthodox Church community. St George Orthodox Cathedral welcomed hundreds for the midnight mass, rituals, and carol singing.

“This is one of the oldest churches here,” Father Geevarghese Mathew, the Vicar, told Gulf News as he reflected on the church’s history in the UAE.

“Our first prayer meeting was held in 1968. Subsequently, we received a plot of land from the gracious Abu Dhabi Ruler then to construct our church building. In 1970, the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, laid the foundation stone for our first church.”

The church was constructed in the Khalidiya area and held its first service in December 1970. In 1983, the congregation moved to its current location in Mushrif area, where a new building was raised, and the church complex was consecrated and dedicated in May 1983. The church had continued to grow, and by 2022, the parish had expanded to more than 1,600 families. Hence, there was a need for a larger facility. It led to the decision to demolish the old building. The construction of a new church began in September 2022, and the new building was inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, in November 2024.

Father Mathew noted the new church building is a reflection of faith and tradition.

“The faithful have got a new building after more than 40 years. Thousands of believers are coming here from different emirates,” he said.

The new building blends modern architecture with biblical symbolism, bringing the stories of the Old and New Testaments to life. Stained glass windows depict key moments from the scriptures. A nativity crib has been designed to incorporate various biblical elements as well as a representation of the old church building.

“This innovative approach is a fresh and creative way of telling the story of Christ’s birth and the church’s journey.”

The Vicar, who led the first Christmas Mass in the new church, said the turnout exceeded expectations in terms of attendance and emotion.

“We were overwhelmed by the flow of people. It exceeded expectations. It was a special moment,” he said.

He stressed the importance of extending the festive spirit beyond personal enjoyment. “While we enjoy a blissful festive season, we must ensure the downtrodden and have-nots are also able to revel in the festive spirit. A true Christian must be able to share and care, and bring a smile to the faces of others.”