In a strongly-worded statement, the Maronite bishops expressed their deep shock and sorrow over the devastation sweeping Lebanon, condemning the violations of its territories across the south, coast, mountains, and Bekaa region.

In a statement issued following their monthly meeting, presided by over by Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi, the bishops decried the relentless violence, which has caused extensive destruction and claimed the lives of innocent civilians. The bishops particularly condemned the continuous Israeli military aggression, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, including Hezbollah's Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah and several of his senior aides. 

The bishops called on the international community to take immediate action to enforce a ceasefire and implement UN resolutions, notably Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for the cessation of hostilities and the disarmament of militias in southern Lebanon. They stressed the need for Lebanon to be spared from the regional and international power struggles that have worsened its already dire situation.

Call for Urgent Presidential Election

The bishops emphasized the urgent need for the Lebanese Parliament to fulfill its national duty by electing a new president without further delay, underlining that the long-standing political deadlock has deepened the country's suffering and prolonged the vacuum in its constitutional institutions. Lebanon, they warned, faces existential challenges that require strong national unity and a commitment to the country’s constitutional framework, which has safeguarded its sovereignty during previous crises. 

The bishops highlighted that Lebanon's historical resilience has always been rooted in its ability to make sovereign, consensual decisions, which must be upheld now more than ever.

Commendation of Humanitarian Efforts

Despite Lebanon's crippling economic conditions, the bishops praised the readiness and efforts of government agencies and the medical sector in assisting displaced people and treating the wounded. They commended the spontaneous and heartfelt responses from unaffected regions, where citizens have opened their homes to those fleeing the violence. The bishops called on the international community to support both official and grassroots efforts in alleviating the suffering caused by the conflict, while advocating for the dignified and safe return of displaced persons to their homes.

The Maronite Church reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its people, particularly those displaced by the ongoing violence, through its dioceses, religious orders, and institutions. Caritas Lebanon, the Church’s charitable arm, has been at the forefront of providing essential aid during these challenging times.

The bishops also lauded the Lebanese Army for maintaining national stability amid exceptional circumstances, calling on citizens to cooperate fully with security forces to prevent any further unrest.

A Call for Unity and Hope

In the face of Lebanon’s escalating crisis, the bishops issued an appeal for a national moral awakening as they urged all Lebanese to prioritize unity, solidarity, and a shared commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty. The country, they asserted, is irreplaceable, and preserving its role and mission in the world is a collective responsibility.

The bishops also welcomed a new sign of hope in these difficult times: the upcoming canonization of the Blessed Martyrs, the Massabki Brothers, at the Vatican on October 20. They encouraged the faithful to accompany this historic event with prayer and reflection, drawing inspiration from the Massabki Brothers’ steadfast faith and ultimate sacrifice for Christ.

As the month of October is dedicated to honoring the Virgin Mary, the bishops concluded their statement with a heartfelt call for intensified prayers. They urged all Lebanese and people of goodwill to pray for Lebanon’s deliverance from its deepening crisis and for the restoration of its secure, dignified, and free presence both in the Middle East and on the global stage.