Pope Leo XIV Mourns Lebanese Priest Killed in Conflict and Calls for Peace in the Middle East
Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Lebanese Maronite priest Father Pierre El Rahi, who was killed amid escalating violence in southern Lebanon. Speaking during his weekly General Audience at the Vatican, the Pope remembered the priest as a devoted pastor who remained close to his community even during the dangers of war. The Holy Father also renewed his call for peace across the Middle East, urging Christians and people of goodwill to pray for civilians suffering in ongoing conflicts. He highlighted the tragic impact of violence on ordinary families and emphasized the need for prayer and solidarity with victims of war.
The Pope referred to the funeral of Father El Rahi, which was held in the village of Qlayaa in southern Lebanon. The area has recently experienced renewed hostilities that have placed local communities under significant strain. Father El Rahi served as the parish priest in the predominantly Christian village and had long been known for his dedication to the people of the region. The Pope acknowledged the suffering of the Lebanese population and expressed spiritual closeness to the nation during what he described as a grave and painful moment in its history.
According to reports from Lebanon, Father El Rahi was killed on Monday after rushing to assist parishioners whose home had been hit during military shelling in the mountainous region of his parish. Witnesses said the priest hurried toward the damaged house alongside several young parishioners in order to help those who had been injured. During the rescue effort the building was struck again, leaving Father El Rahi severely wounded. He was taken to a nearby hospital where doctors attempted to treat his injuries, but he later died from the wounds sustained in the attack.
Reflecting on the priest’s life and mission, Pope Leo XIV described Father El Rahi as a true shepherd who remained beside his people with courage and compassion. The Pope noted that the priest responded immediately when he learned that members of his community had been injured, running to their aid without hesitation despite the dangers surrounding the area. The Holy Father also reflected on the meaning of the priest’s family name, explaining that the Arabic word El Rahi means shepherd. He said Father Pierre embodied the image of the Good Shepherd by placing the needs of his people above his own safety.
The Vatican also released a statement through the Holy See Press Office expressing sorrow over the death of the priest and the many other victims of violence across the region. The statement emphasized the Pope’s concern for civilians caught in the conflict and highlighted the growing humanitarian toll, particularly among children and families. Vatican officials reiterated the Holy Father’s desire for an immediate end to hostilities and encouraged continued prayer for peace in areas affected by war and instability throughout the Middle East.
During his remarks at the audience, Pope Leo XIV broadened his appeal by asking the faithful to pray not only for Lebanon but also for peace in Iran and across the wider Middle East. He spoke about the many innocent victims of ongoing violence and urged believers to remember them in their prayers. According to the Pope, prayer can become a source of comfort for those who suffer and a sign of hope for communities living under the shadow of war.
The Pope concluded his reflection by praying that the sacrifice of Father El Rahi would become a sign of reconciliation and peace for Lebanon. The death of the priest has deeply affected the local Church and communities in southern Lebanon, where Christian villages have long sought to maintain stability despite regional tensions. As tributes continue to emerge from Church leaders and local residents, the story of Father El Rahi’s final act of service has become a powerful symbol of pastoral commitment and courage in the midst of conflict.
