The Maronite Church's Synod of Bishops convened its regular session from June 3 to 13, 2026, at the Patriarchal Seat in Bkerke, led by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Beshara Boutros Al-Rai. Bishops, exarchs, and apostolic administrators from dioceses in Lebanon and the Patriarchal domain, as well as countries of diaspora, participated, focused on issues affecting their communities.
In an initial phase from June 3 to 6, 2026, participants took part in a spiritual retreat, with sermons by Father Michel Khoury. The retreat centered on “The Bishop’s Vocation: A Continuous Growth Path in Christ.” In a subsequent phase from June 8 to 13, 2026, the synod's work commenced, introduced by the Patriarch, who welcomed participants and reviewed the agenda.
After prayer and reflection, the bishops expressed gratitude for the beatification of the Venerable Patriarch Elias Al-Hoyek, set to be celebrated on July 25, 2026. They discussed ecclesiastical, pastoral, social, and national matters with a spirit of mutual listening and took appropriate ecclesiastical and pastoral measures.
In their concluding statement, read by Bishop of Batroun Munir Khairallah, the bishops emphasized the following:
On Ecclesiastical Affairs:
They addressed the synodality in the Maronite Church, recognizing how vital it is amid global challenges, guiding both clergy and congregations with the Holy Spirit in love, humility, and evangelical courage.
Discussions entailed insights from bishops who participated in the 16th Synod of Bishops in Rome and addressed transitioning from institutional synodality to living and discerning the church's path collectively. A committee will be appointed to oversee this synodal journey further.
On Social Affairs and Charity:
Reports presented by the Charity Coordination Service highlighted the essential role of charity as more than technical aid, emphasizing dignity, listening, and Christ's presence with the poor. The bishops called on Lebanese and diaspora communities to support local resilience and deter youth migration.
On National Matters:
With Lebanon facing severe economic and social challenges, the bishops emphasized the state's need to fulfill its educational and health responsibilities and reduce Lebanon’s reliance on financial fixes. They expressed support for the state in ongoing Lebanese-Israeli negotiations for securing Lebanon’s sovereign rights and achieving peace.
Concluding, the synod expressed a desire for a church that listens, accompanies, and supports its people with hope and resilience, drawing inspiration from historical Maronite leaders like Patriarch Elias Al-Hoyek.
The synod concluded by making several recommendations and decisions to cultivate a more synodal church structure across all Maronite dioceses and institutions, ensuring the church remains a beacon of hope amid global shifts.