A Convent, a School and a Parish Office Destroyed: War Damages Church Property in Southern Lebanon

• A Salvatorian Sisters’ convent and school in Yaroun were destroyed
• A Melkite Greek Catholic church in Derdghaya was struck in October 2024
• The priest’s house and parish office in Derdghaya were destroyed
• Caritas Lebanon and other groups are supporting remaining residents

Christian churches and property in southern Lebanon have been hit during the war in southern Lebanon, EWTN News reported on May 19, 2026, in a report by Romy Haber.

In Yaroun, a Catholic convent and school belonging to the Salvatorian Sisters were destroyed, along with a statue of St George. In Derdghaya, a Melkite Greek Catholic church was struck by an Israeli missile in October 2024, and the priest’s house and parish office building were destroyed. The report also described damage to Christian statues by Israeli soldiers, for which soldiers were disciplined.

Several Christians were killed in March 2026, including Father Pierre al-Rahi in a strike on Qlayaa. Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 45-day ceasefire extension after talks hosted by the United States. Caritas Lebanon, the Lebanese Red Cross, L’Œuvre d’Orient and Nawraj are helping residents who remain.

The destruction of convents, schools and parish buildings leaves Christian villages with less to return to.

Churches in Jamaica do not face war, but the loss of church schools, convents and parish offices in southern Lebanon shows how much of a community’s life depends on church property. Insurance, good records and partnerships with overseas churches and charities help congregations rebuild after any disaster, natural or otherwise.