Pope Leo XIV’s pilgrimage to the monastery in Annaya highlights the enduring, cross-confessional appeal of Saint Charbel, a figure of hope for a nation in crisis.
ANNAYA, Lebanon – As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his first international trip, a quiet monastery in the mountains of north Lebanon is bustling with activity. Here, at the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf, the faithful of all religions gather, drawn by tales of miracles and a shared sense of devotion.
The US-born pontiff will visit the Saint Maron Monastery in Annaya on December 1, a highlight of his journey to Türkiye and Lebanon. For pilgrims like Charbel Matar, 69, the visit is a powerful affirmation of a saint he credits with saving his life as a child.
“My family and I have great faith in Saint Charbel,” said Matar, whose parents renamed him in the saint’s honor. “I almost died when I was five. He performed a miracle and saved me.”
Saint Charbel, a 19th-century Maronite monk known for his ascetic life, is a ubiquitous figure in Lebanon. His image, depicting a bearded monk in prayer, is found in homes, shops, and cars across the country, transcending religious boundaries.
“He is a message of love… and the face of Lebanon,” said Randa Saliba, 60, visiting the monastery with her family. “The Catholic Church can’t deny the miracles he performs.”
The monastery’s vice rector, Tannous Nehme, estimates it attracts around three million visitors annually. “It’s not just Christians — a lot of Muslims come to visit, a lot of non-religious people,” Nehme said, underscoring the saint’s broad appeal.
The papal visit brings a wave of optimism to a nation weary from recent traumas, including a devastating economic collapse, the 2020 Beirut port explosion, and recent cross-border conflict.
“The pope’s visit is very important for Lebanon. It brings goodness and blessings… and optimism for the Lebanese people,” said Claude Issa, a 56-year-old mother of three.
Pope Leo’s itinerary includes meetings with President Joseph Aoun and a silent prayer at the site of the Beirut port explosion—a gesture acknowledging the deep wounds of the Lebanese people. His pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint Charbel, a symbol of resilience and faith, is seen as a spiritual balm for a country in need of healing.
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