Local Maronite generosity to Lebanon praised

Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay, the Maronite Bishop of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania, wrote about the delivery in a reflection on his recent visit to the war-torn Middle East nation.

“During my recent visit to Lebanon, I joined His Excellency Archbishop Paolo Borgia, Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon, Fr Giuseppe Francone, secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature, Their Excellencies Bishops Charbel Abdallah, Simon Faddoul and Georges Bakhouni, together with Fr Samir Ghawi, president of Caritas Lebanon, and Mrs Patricia Sfeir, director of the World Patriarchal Foundation, on a pastoral and humanitarian visit to the villages of South Lebanon,” Bishop Tarabay wrote. 

“From early morning until evening, we travelled together to meet families, encourage local communities and witness a beautiful work of mercy. As part of this initiative, 25 trucks carrying food, essential supplies and toys were delivered to families in need across the region.  

“I am deeply grateful to the generous faithful of the Maronite Eparchy of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania, whose kindness helped provide three of these trucks. This humanitarian effort was made possible through the collaboration of the World Patriarchal Foundation, Caritas Lebanon and other generous organisations. 

“Our journey took us through the Christian villages of Debel, Ain Ebel and Rmeich, communities that have borne the heavy burden of the recent conflict. We met local families, visited the renovation of an old hospital and were welcomed by parish priests and faithful. Everywhere we went, we encountered people whose faith remains remarkably strong in the face of hardships that continue to test them. 

Bishop Tarabay said “it was impossible not to be deeply moved by the devastation around us”.

“Entire villages have been destroyed. In some places, not a single home remains standing. Churches, schools and family homes bear the scars of conflict. Many Christian communities remain isolated, uncertain about the future yet determined not to abandon the land of their ancestors and faith. Yet even amid such devastation, there were moments of extraordinary hope. 

“One of the most beautiful moments of the day came as toys, footballs and World Cup flags were distributed to the children. Their smiles returned almost instantly. Soon, streets once marked by sorrow echoed with laughter as children played together until late into the evening. It was a powerful reminder that even the smallest gestures of kindness can restore hope where it has been overshadowed by suffering.” 

FULL STORY

A journey of mercy to South Lebanon (By Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay/ The Catholic Weekly)