This encounter was initiated by Sister Runita Borja, FMA, who asked the Small Team of SYM Europe to create this space for dialogue. Her inspiration came directly from Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Turkey and Lebanon in December, where she was moved by the courage and joy of the young people despite their hardships. Zaur, a member of the Small Team who moderated the event, expressed deep gratitude to Sister Runita for planting this seed.
A significant point of inspiration for all speakers was the Pope’s message during his visit. Participants recalled his stirring imagery of youth as “young cedars of Lebanon,” reminding them that while their roots are planted in scarred soil, their branches are meant to reach the sky.
The Pope’s message challenged the youth to be an “active resistance, not through violence, but through a love that heals”. For many, like Tatiana who works with refugee children at the oratory, the visit was a healing moment that ensured they did not feel forgotten by the world.
The dialogue also addressed the difficult operational realities facing Salesian missions. Fr. Joe Attila and Noura, one of the representatives from Middle East’s youth, detailed the immense pressure on educational centers, such as the Don Bosco Technical School, which struggles to provide scholarships amid Lebanon’s financial crisis. The Salesians currently serve hundreds of Iraqi and Syrian refugee children, offering education and psychosocial support even when formal certification is restricted by political hurdles.
The “Bridges of Hope” encounter reminded us that solidarity is a mutual exchange of spiritual wealth. While European youth may face different challenges—such as mental health struggles and “material excess”—the Lebanese youth suggested a simple remedy: slowing down and choosing to connect.
As Father Rafael Bejarano noted in his video message: “The Salesian Youth movement is about fraternity and solidarity… we always have the opportunity to offer to other young people this beautiful opportunity to have a better world for all“.
This event proved that whether in the streets of Beirut or the cities of Europe, the Salesian spirit remains a “leaven of peace,” transforming reality through presence, prayer, and persistent hope.
Written by:
Alba Díaz (SYM Europe – Small Team)
