The ongoing crisis in Lebanon has claimed the life of Fr. Pierre El Rai, a Maronite priest from the Diocese of Tyre and a project partner of the foundation, who was killed amid the current escalation of violence in the region. According to information received by ACN, the priest was helping people affected by a bombardment when another attack occurred, taking his life.
A Shelter Amid the Crisis in Lebanon
The violence has escalated significantly, with nearly 30,000 people displaced following a wave of overnight airstrikes. In Saida, Greek Melkite Bishop Elie Haddad described the atmosphere:
“Missiles are flying over our heads”.
In the Beqaa Valley, the crisis in Lebanon is unfolding in ways reminiscent of the 2024 war. Bishop Hanna Rahme reported that families are seeking refuge in Deir El Ahmar, where public schools and St. Nohra Church have opened their doors. Despite limited means, Bishop Rahme emphasized:
“They are our people; we will take care of them with what we have”.
Commitment to the Community
ACN also received reports of the death of Sami Ghafari, 70, who was killed in the garden of his home in the village of Aalma el Chaab. He was the brother of another Lebanese priest and had been present at a Mass celebrated by ACN representatives during the ceasefire.
Despite the growing insecurity, many priests and religious sisters have chosen to remain with their communities, as have many Christian families who are unwilling to abandon their land. Fr. Pierre El Rai was known for this very commitment to his parishioners in a region deeply marked by tension.
ACN joins in prayer for his soul and invites the faithful around the world to pray for peace in Lebanon and the protection of Christian communities.
