Bkerke: Young people across Lebanon described Pope Leo XIV’s meeting with them in Bkerké as a moment of rare unity and renewed hope, comparing the Pontiff to a “big brother” who arrived to comfort a nation still reeling from years of turmoil.
Thousands of young people an estimated 15,000 filled the square outside the Maronite Patriarchate of Antioch on Monday, turning the gathering into a lively, World Youth Day–like celebration. Waving Lebanese and Vatican flags, singing, and cheering, they awaited the Pope’s message of courage and peace at a time when Lebanon’s youth continue to face severe uncertainty.
“It’s like when an older brother visits his younger one after tough times,” said 24-year-old Ralph Sarkis, reflecting on the Pope’s arrival. “After everything our country has gone through, he’s here to give us a new sense of peace and joy.”
Lebanon’s young generation has carried the weight of multiple crises from the 2019 financial collapse and the devastating Beirut port blast in 2020 to the pandemic and recurring political instability. Many feel their life plans are constantly derailed by events beyond their control.
“We have lived through things no young person should face,” Ralph added. “We lost friends in the blast, and many others left the country searching for stability. My own brother left. I also thought about leaving, but I stayed because I feel Jesus wants me to be here and have a mission.”
For many, choosing to remain in Lebanon stems from a deep emotional bond with their homeland.
“At this age, people elsewhere are building their future. For us, every plan can break overnight,” said 24-year-old Janice Ghossoub. “But I love Lebanon. I love our people, the spirit we have. Our community keeps us rooted here.”
Even those frustrated by instability insist that the country’s cultural richness and close-knit communities give them strength to persevere.
With so many challenges shaking their sense of stability, faith remains a powerful anchor for Lebanese Christian youth.
“For us, seeing the head of the Catholic Church here means a lot,” Ralph said. “I want to tell young people everywhere seek the Lord. He’s the hope you need.”
Ralph Yammine, a scout volunteer assisting with the event, said Lebanon’s youth are searching for renewed faith as economic pressures pull many away from religion. “But we are sons and daughters of God. Nothing is impossible with Him,” he insisted. “Lebanon needs peace, and Pope Leo is here to remind us of the peace Jesus offers.”
Marie-Lyne El Hayek, 25, echoed this sentiment. “Lebanon is beautiful but tough. You need strong faith to live here. Seeing the Pope reminds us that better days are ahead.”
One of the most moving aspects of the visit, the youth said, was seeing people of all faiths welcome the Pope.
“It’s not only Christians celebrating him Muslims too,” Janice observed. “It gives us a glimpse of what living together in harmony could be.”
Despite years of crisis, Monday’s gathering in Bkerké radiated hope a sign that Lebanon’s youth, though burdened, remain resilient, united, and determined to build a future where peace is possible.