Relics of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus Return to Lebanon in Spiritual Tour Marking Centennial of Her Canonization
Beirut, June 13 — As Lebanon celebrates the 100th anniversary of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus’s canonization, her relics arrived in Beirut on Friday morning, marking their second visit to the country after 23 years. The visit is seen as a powerful spiritual event, offering hope and renewal amid Lebanon’s ongoing challenges.
The relics landed at Beirut International Airport at 10 AM, welcomed by a gathering of priests, nuns, journalists, and members of the organizing committee. The arrival ceremony included a flower-petal shower and a performance by singer Joumana Madwar, creating a deeply moving atmosphere for those present.
Following a brief prayer led by clergy, Mr. Fadi Fayyad, coordinator of the visit, expressed gratitude to Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi for his support in organizing the event and thanked the Lisieux Cathedral for hosting the relics despite difficult circumstances in Lebanon. Fayyad emphasized that this visit represents a beacon of hope for the country’s future.
Father Hadi Dou conveyed the Patriarch’s blessings, highlighting the visit’s spiritual significance in line with Saint Thérèse’s famous words: “I will spend my heaven doing good on earth.” Father Olivier Roufier, speaking for the Diocese of Lisieux, also expressed joy over the spiritual unity this event fosters.
After the official reception, a solemn procession carried the relics to the Monastery of Saint Thérèse in Sahil, beginning a tour across various Lebanese regions. The relics will visit numerous churches and parishes over the next month and a half, spreading a message of peace, love, and faith throughout the nation.
The visit was coordinated with the Diocese of Lisieux and the Basilica of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, underscoring the enduring spiritual ties between Lebanon and the Church of Lisieux. Saint Thérèse continues to inspire as the patroness of missionaries and a spiritual teacher, despite her brief life.
For details on the tour schedule, visit the official Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/thereseauliban/.