A prayer vigil was held in Beirut to mark the fifth anniversary of the port explosion. Pope Leo XIV sent a message expressing closeness with the people of Beirut. The Apostolic Nunzio emphasized the need for justice and truth for the victims' families. The vigil included testimonies, a silent march, and the planting of trees in memory of the victims. The Pope conveyed his affection and the Church's support to the Lebanese people.
4 months ago
Pope Leo XIV has expressed profound spiritual closeness and compassion for the people of Beirut on the fifth anniversary of the devastating port explosion that occurred on August 4, 2020 2 3 4. In a message signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Pontiff affirmed that "Christ’s tears are joined with our own in the face of the loss and suffering of our loved ones" 1 2 3. He also conveyed his affection and the Church's support, stating that "beloved and suffering Lebanon remains at the center of his prayers" 2 3 4.
The fifth anniversary was marked by a solemn prayer vigil held on August 4, 2025, in Karantina, Beirut, near Our Lady of Deliverance Church, one of the areas most severely affected 2 3. The commemoration included moving testimonies, a silent march, and the symbolic planting of 75 trees bearing the names of the victims 2 3. The explosion tragically killed 245 people and injured 6,000, leaving deep and vivid wounds in the memory of the Lebanese people 2 3. Furthermore, the silo that exploded has now been listed as a historical monument of the country 2 3.
A central theme of the commemoration was the persistent demand for justice and truth regarding the explosion 2 3. Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon, Archbishop Paolo Borgia, emphasized that the families of the victims need answers, as the deaths still lack a clear cause or explanation 3. Pope Francis, in a meeting with victims' families last year, had acknowledged the issue as "complicated and thorny" due to "conflicting interests" 2 3. While the investigation remains in a preliminary phase, some steps are being taken, offering a "bit more hope" to the victims' families 2 3.
Archbishop Borgia highlighted that Lebanon continues to face significant trials, including war, economic and political crises, and social instability, in addition to the lingering impact of the explosion 3. Despite these challenges, there is hope for peace and resolution of political issues, both internally and along the country's borders 3. The presence of numerous Lebanese youth at the Jubilee in Rome signifies a strong faith and attachment to the Church, embodying a desire to rebuild their country despite many being forced to emigrate for better living conditions 3.
Pope Leo XIV's message also offered encouragement to bishops, priests, and religious figures who support the Lebanese people in maintaining hope through trials 4. The Pope entrusted the Lebanese people to the protection of the Virgin Mary and Lebanese saints 4. Following the cancellation of Pope Francis's planned trip in 2022, there is anticipation that Lebanon could be one of Pope Leo XIV's first apostolic journey destinations, an invitation extended by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun 4. Such a visit is seen as crucial support for the country's Christian communities and society as a whole 4.
How does the Church address suffering and injustice?
The Catholic Church addresses suffering and injustice through a multifaceted approach rooted in the Gospel message, emphasizing both charitable action and the promotion of justice . This commitment stems from the understanding that human suffering, in its various forms, is a sign of humanity's fallen state and elicits Christ's compassion .
The Church holds a "preferential option for the poor," which means that those oppressed by poverty are the object of a special love from the Church . This option is not exclusive but recognizes the particular vulnerability of the poor . This preferential love extends beyond material poverty to include cultural and spiritual poverty, as well as those on the margins of society, the elderly, the sick, victims of consumerism, refugees, and migrants .
From its very origins, the Church has engaged in numerous works of charity to relieve, defend, and liberate those suffering . This is seen in historical examples such as monks tilling land, religious orders founding hospitals and shelters, and individuals dedicating themselves to the needy . These acts of concrete love are indispensable and reflect Christ's identification with the "least of his brethren" (Mt 25:40) . The Church's love for the poor is an essential part of its constant tradition .
Charity is understood as a necessary service of love that will always be required, even in the most just society, because suffering and loneliness will always exist . This service of love not only offers material help but also provides "refreshment and care for their souls," which is often more necessary than material support .
The Church's social doctrine, derived from the Gospel, promotes a deeper understanding of the laws of social living and bears witness to human dignity and vocation . It teaches the demands of justice and peace in conformity with divine wisdom . While a just society is primarily the achievement of politics, the Church is deeply concerned with promoting justice by fostering openness to the demands of the common good .
The Christian faithful are obliged to promote social justice and to assist the poor from their own resources, mindful of the Lord's precept . The Church's social message is not merely a theory but a basis and motivation for action, aiming to bring about peace and harmony among people of different social origins . The credibility of the Church's social message is enhanced by the witness of actions rather than solely by its internal logic .
At the core of the Church's response to suffering and injustice is the belief in the inalienable dignity of each human person . The Church serves those in need—children, the poor, the handicapped, the sick—because of this belief, reflecting God's love for humanity . This commitment means that the Church is anxious whenever people face catastrophes, conflicts, hunger, or lack basic necessities .
In summary, the Church addresses suffering and injustice through a dual commitment to practical charity and the active promotion of social justice. This approach is driven by a profound love for the poor and a recognition of the inherent dignity of every human being, seeking to alleviate immediate suffering while also working towards more just societal structures.