Pope expresses closeness to Christians affected by war in southern Lebanon

Vatican, April 8, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has conveyed his closeness to the residents of Debel in southern Lebanon, as well as to all those enduring the effects of war, in an Easter message issued amid continued Israeli attacks in the region.

In a message directed to the people of the conflict-stricken village of Debel, the Pope shared his spiritual solidarity with those suffering due to the war, extending his comfort “to all Christians of southern Lebanon.”

Archbishop Paolo Borgia, the Apostolic Nuncio to the country, delivered the Pope’s message on Easter Day. He communicated the Pontiff’s “proximity and paternal tenderness” to communities impacted by the ongoing violence in the region.

The message, signed on behalf of the Pope by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, had initially been planned for personal delivery during a pastoral visit to Debel. The nuncio had intended to travel alongside three trucks carrying humanitarian aid, organised by Caritas, Œuvre d'Orient, and the Maronite Patriarchate. However, the visit was cancelled due to ongoing Israeli attacks in the area.

As a result, Archbishop Borgia remained at the UNIFIL base in Deir Kifa, where he delivered the papal message via Lebanese television, addressing the people of Debel and other affected communities in the southern part of the country.

“A joy that nothing can take away”

In his Easter message, Pope Leo XIV expressed spiritual closeness to those affected by the continuing conflict. He especially extended his comfort “to all Christians of southern Lebanon and to all people who suffer the consequences of war.”

“Today we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord,” the Pope wrote, “May you, in the midst of feelings of pain, anxiety, and mourning, come to know in your hearts a deeper joy: Jesus has gloriously triumphed over death. It is a joy that comes from heaven and that nothing can take away.”

He also reflected on the hardships faced by the local population, observing that in times of injustice, abandonment, and suffering, the faithful remain united with Christ in His Passion and triumph over evil.

“In your misfortune, in the injustice you endure, in the feeling of abandonment you experience, you are very close to Jesus,” the Pope continued. “You are close to Him on this Easter day, when He has conquered the forces of evil, and which resounds for you as a promise of the future.”

Appeal to perseverance and hope

Pope Leo urged the faithful to remain steadfast, reminding them that their prayers and acts of solidarity hold value. “Do not lose courage,” he pleaded, “No prayer of yours, no gesture of solidarity, no sigh of weariness that you express is lost.”

Entrusting the suffering communities to the intercession of Our Lady of Lebanon, he affirmed that she “keeps everything in her heart and brings it to her Son.”

The message concluded with the Apostolic Blessing imparted upon all those addressed, including their families and loved ones.

Humanitarian mission halted by insecurity

The Pope’s message was delivered in the context of a halted humanitarian convoy. The planned mission to Debel, which was to transport essential supplies for civilians, was interrupted due to the prevailing security conditions along the route.

Despite the suspension of the physical distribution, the Church organisations involved continue to coordinate relief efforts for communities affected by the escalation of violence in southern Lebanon.

Courtesy: Vatican News