The Maronite Archdiocese in Australia is deeply concerned about the escalating violence in the Middle East, particularly in our beloved homeland, Lebanon, which is suffering under the weight of a war that has disrupted the safety and stability of its people. The human losses, destruction, and displacement faced by the Lebanese deepen wounds that have yet to heal, presenting everyone with grave existential and humanitarian challenges. In a time when human solutions seem insufficient, we lift our hearts and eyes to the Lord as we commemorate in our Archdiocese the Year of Prayer for Peace in 2026.
It is with profound sorrow that the Archdiocese mourns the martyr Father Pierre Al-Rahi, the priest of the Qlayaa parish, who chose to remain with his community despite the dangers and was killed while carrying out his pastoral duties, inspecting a house that had been shelled. The martyrdom of Father Al-Rahi represents a significant loss for the Church and all who knew him, as he embodied the image of a faithful shepherd who dedicates himself to his flock.
The Maronite Archdiocese in Australia extends its heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Bishop Charbel Abdallah, the clergy, as well as to the family of Father Pierre Al-Rahi, his parishioners, and all those suffering in the southern region. We raise our prayers for the repose of his soul in the heavenly kingdom alongside the faithful servants. We also pray for all the innocent lives lost due to the war imposed on Lebanon, especially the children and families who have lost loved ones or been forced to flee. We stand in solidarity with those who have remained steadfast in their land and homes despite the harsh conditions.
In line with our humanitarian and pastoral duty, the Archdiocese, in collaboration with Maronites on Mission, announces a fundraising campaign to support the affected families in the resilient southern towns. Donations will be allocated to provide essential supplies, medical assistance, and support for restoration and rebuilding efforts. This initiative comes during the blessed season of Lent, as the Church calls its members to live out their faith through acts of mercy and solidarity.
In this year dedicated to prayer for peace, we ask God the Father to heal the wounds of division and conflict, and to allow Jesus Christ, the King of Peace, to transform hearts, replacing hatred with dialogue and violence with mercy. We also implore the Holy Spirit to grant us the strength to be instruments of peace within our families, communities, and our homeland.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, we ask the Lord to pour out His peace upon Lebanon, the Middle East, and the world.
+ Bishop Antonios-Charbel Tabbah
Shepherd of the Maronite Archdiocese in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania
Sydney, March 11, 2026
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