Caritas Lebanon kicked off its 2026 annual Lenten fundraising campaign at a press conference held at its Central Administration headquarters in Sin El Fil, gathering religious leaders, government officials, media figures, and humanitarian partners under the unifying slogan: “Love Without Borders.”
A Call to Conscience, Not Just a Fundraiser
Opening the event, Father Samir Ghawi, newly appointed President of Caritas Lebanon, set the tone with a passionate address that reframed the campaign’s purpose: “We are not launching a campaign today, we are launching a journey. Caritas is not a service institution, not an aid office, not a number in reports. Caritas is a heart beating in society.”
Father Ghawi called on every Lebanese citizen, family, and institution to become a partner in building what he described as a “culture of active love”*one rooted not in charity alone, but in dignity, solidarity, and shared responsibility. He emphasized that no contribution is too small: “You are not too poor to give. You are not too weak to love.”
Government and Church in Full Support
Minister of Information Dr. Paul Morkos expressed his ministry’s wholehearted backing, pledging comprehensive media coverage across all public platforms. Reflecting on the spirit of Lent, he said: “Caritas helps and we broadcast; Caritas aids and we illuminate; it removes pain and we support with the pen.”* He thanked Caritas for embodying the greatest of Christian virtues: faith, hope, and love through concrete, daily action.
Bishop Mounir Khairallah, represented by Monsignor Abdo Bou Kassem, placed the campaign within the broader spiritual context of a shared Lenten fast, reminding attendees that *”the wealth of this world remains in this world, but acts of mercy engrave our names in heaven.”* He extended warm wishes to Father Ghawi as he embarks on his leadership role.
Answering a Growing Need
The campaign comes at a critical moment for Lebanon, where economic hardship continues to push thousands of families to the margins. Caritas Lebanon reports rising demand across all its service areas: medicine, food, shelter, and education; with many households lacking even the most basic necessities.
Through its nationwide network of volunteers and regional offices, Caritas Lebanon will channel donations directly to families in need throughout the Lenten season and beyond.