Interfaith volunteers rebuild war‑damaged Catholic monastery in Lebanon

Interfaith volunteers have begun restoring a Catholic monastery that was severely damaged during Lebanon’s recent conflict in the village of Zawtar al‑Gharbiyeh. The site, which once served as a spiritual and cultural hub for the local community, suffered extensive structural damage from shelling and fire, leaving its historic stone walls and frescoed chapels in ruins. A coalition of volunteers, comprising Christians, Muslims and Druze, coordinated through the Lebanese Red Cross and local NGOs, started the reconstruction effort last week, aiming to preserve the monastery’s architectural heritage while providing a symbol of communal solidarity.

The restoration project is being funded by a combination of private donations, international aid from the European Union’s cultural heritage program, and contributions from Lebanese diaspora groups. Engineers and artisans are working alongside the volunteers to reinforce the foundation, replace damaged roofing, and restore interior artwork using traditional techniques. Officials from the Ministry of Culture have pledged ongoing support, emphasizing the monastery’s importance as a testament to Lebanon’s pluralistic history. Completion is targeted for early 2027, after which the site is expected to reopen for worship and serve as a venue for interfaith dialogue and cultural events.