A recent reception was held to raise funds for the construction of a third Christian cemetery in Bahrain, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to address the need for more burial space for the Christian community. The event, hosted by the Christian Community Cemeteries Committee (CCCC) under the chairmanship of the British Ambassador, HE Alastair Long, took place in the peaceful surroundings of the original Christian cemetery in Manama. The first of its kind in Bahrain, this cemetery dates back to 1901 and has since been surrounded by the development of the bustling city.
The need for a new cemetery has grown more pressing in recent years. Bahrain’s second Christian cemetery, located in Salmabad, is quickly nearing full capacity, with only a few months left before all remaining plots are utilised. With approximately 40 Christian burials each year – many of them for expatriates who cannot afford the expense of repatriation – the construction of a third cemetery has become a critical task for the CCCC.
The first phase of this new cemetery project has already been completed, thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, churches and generous donors. This phase included the preparation of the site and raising the ground level by two metres to match the surrounding roads, an essential step given the landscape. The land for the cemetery was generously donated.
John Luckie-Downe, head of the Cemetery Working Group, a task force established by the CCCC, explained the historical context and importance of this project. “The first Christian cemetery opened in 1901 outside of Manama, and the second in Salmabad has been in use for many years. However, time is running out, and without the funds to complete the third cemetery, we will face a critical shortage of space for Christian burials,” he said.
Mr. Luckie-Downe also emphasised the social significance of the project, stating that it serves as a vital piece of social infrastructure for families experiencing traumatic loss, particularly for those who cannot afford the expense of returning their loved ones to their home countries for burial. “Many of the burials are for lower-income families, and sadly, a number are for infants. The new cemetery will offer a place of dignity and peace for all Christians, regardless of their denomination or level of religious practice,” he added.
The second phase of the project, the construction of a boundary wall, is set to begin soon, with sufficient funds already raised. This phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. However, fundraising efforts are ongoing for the third phase, which will involve the construction of essential facilities, including a guardhouse, WC block, storage area and pathways, along with security features like CCTV. The target amount for this phase is BD59,800, to be raised by the end of 2025.
Father Richard Fermer, Dean of St Christopher’s Cathedral, thanked the various churches in Bahrain for their contributions. “This is a work of charity for the common good, and the construction of the new cemetery will provide support to expatriates who cannot afford to return home for burial. It is a truly ecumenical project that benefits the entire community.”
Looking ahead, the CCCC has ambitious plans to enhance the new cemetery even further. Plans are in place for the construction of a chapel by 2026, providing a space for final prayers and remembrance. In addition, a modern, low-emission crematorium is also under consideration, which would serve a wider faith community in Bahrain, further cementing the cemetery’s role as an essential piece of social infrastructure.
The CCCC would be delighted to receive your donation through the QR code:
