The Inauguration of the Holy Childhood society: a joyful day for the Church in the country

The Pontifical Holy Childhood Society officially launched at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday, September 26, 2026. More than 80 children between the ages of 6 and 14 joined the global network of young missionaries, which focuses on witnessing to the faith through prayer and solidarity, according to Father Marcus Fernandes, the Missio-Avona delegate.

Vicar General Father Ruben Berrameda presided over the inaugural Mass. The celebration included Father Paul Raj, the parish priest, and Father Rosario Colaco, who was appointed as the new spiritual director for the society. Father Marcus Fernandes also concelebrated the liturgy.

The launch follows two years of preparation by the Missio-Avona office. Bishop Aldo Berardi, the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, sent a message of blessing to the community but could not attend because he was traveling to his hometown for the apostolic journey of Pope Leo XIV. Bishop Berardi promised to visit the children in Qatar in the future.