‘Tens of thousands’ gather for funeral of Catholic priest killed by Israeli strike in Lebanon

(LifeSiteNews) — “Tens of thousands” gathered on Wednesday for the funeral of Maronite priest Father Pierre El-Rahi in the Christian village of Qlayaa, Lebanon, who was killed in a tank strike by Israeli forces.

In a post on X, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the funeral, highlighting the tragic loss and urging renewed efforts toward peace in the region.

“The funeral of Father Pierre El-Rahi, Maronite parish priest of a Christian village, is celebrated today in #Lebanon, as these villages once again experience the tragedy of war,” wrote Pope Leo.

“I am close to all the Lebanese people in this time of grave trial. Fr. Pierre was a true shepherd. As soon as he heard that parishioners had been wounded in a bombing, he rushed to help without hesitation. May the Lord grant that the blood he shed become a seed of peace for beloved Lebanon.”

El-Rahi was killed in a March 9 tank strike by Israeli forces, in what was dubbed a “double tap” bombing. The first strike in the Christian Lebanese village allegedly injured a husband and wife whom El-Rahi had attempted to attend to. The second tank strike in the Christian village left the priest mortally wounded.

READ: Thousands of clergy call for prayer, justice after Israeli strike kills Catholic priest in Lebanon

Former U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene responded to Pope Leo XIV’s post on X, echoing his concerns and again urging the U.S. government to end funding for Israel’s military campaigns.

“Israel killed a beloved Priest in Lebanon in their vicious bombing campaign in Christian villages,” wrote Greene.

“Christians are gathered to mourn the death of Father Pierre El-Rahi. America must stop funding, providing weapons, and aiding Israel’s attacks on innocent people and children.”

On March 8, Pope Leo spoke on the escalating conflict involving Iran during his Angelus address, expressing deep concern over the violence and urging an end to the bombings with renewed efforts toward dialogue and peace in the region.

“We lift up our humble prayer to the Lord, so that the thunderous sound of bombs may cease, weapons may fall silent, and a space for dialogue may open up in which the voice of the people can be heard,” said Leo.

“I entrust this intention to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, that she may intercede for those who suffer because of war and lead hearts along the paths of reconciliation and hope.”