Finding Consolation and Hope Through Faith: A Discussion with the Hasrouty Siblings
After their audience with Pope Francis in August, Elie and Tatiana Hasrouty, who lost their father in the tragic 2020 Beirut Port explosion, shared their journey of faith and the importance of working towards peace in Lebanon.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
In a touching interview with Vatican News, Elie and Tatiana Hasrouty reflected on the impact of their father’s death, Ghassan, who was the Head of Operations in the Beirut Port Silos. Despite their immense loss, they expressed gratitude for the support they have received from the Catholic Church during this difficult time.
Tragedy Strikes Beirut
The catastrophic explosion, caused by the mishandling of explosive materials at the port, resulted in the loss of over 200 lives, injuries to thousands, and widespread destruction across the city. In the aftermath, investigations revealed systemic failures and corruption at various levels of government and port authorities, exacerbating the existing political and social turmoil in Lebanon.
Elie lamented the lack of closure and justice surrounding the incident, emphasizing the dysfunction of institutions in Beirut. However, their meeting with Pope Francis brought them solace and renewed hope, inspiring them to advocate for positive change in their country.
Fostering Responsibility for a Better Future
Elie urged the Lebanese people to take ownership of their future and move beyond victimhood, highlighting the Church’s role in supporting communities and fostering collective responsibility. Tatiana echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.
The siblings praised Pope Francis for his unwavering support for Lebanon and his genuine concern for the country’s well-being. In a world marked by conflict, they found comfort in the Pope’s empathy and the Church’s steadfast commitment to peace and solidarity.
Building a Future of Coexistence and Peace
Tatiana emphasized Lebanon’s unique ability to harmoniously coexist despite its diverse religious landscape. She commended the Church for its inclusive approach, transcending divisions and promoting unity among all individuals, regardless of their background.
As Lebanon navigates turbulent times, the Hasrouty siblings look towards the future with hope and determination, guided by their faith and the support of the Church. In Pope Francis’ vision, Lebanon is not just a battleground but a beacon of peace and reconciliation, where all communities can thrive together.
Through tragedy and loss, Elie and Tatiana Hasrouty exemplify the resilience and faith that can help heal wounds and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
