Welcome to the blog post about the inspiring work of the Leadership Academy for Peace in Lebanon! Led by Bishop Jules Boutros, this academy is training young people to bring the values of Catholic Social Teaching into the realm of politics. The impact of this project is truly remarkable.
Despite the challenges facing Lebanon, especially among the youth, with many expressing a desire to leave the country, the Leadership Academy for Peace is creating a new narrative for young Christians. Supported by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Integral Human Development, this academy is working with Catholic youth under 35 in the Middle East.
Through the Academy, young people are engaging in politics with the goal of transforming it from a place of corruption into a platform for promoting peace, justice, and fraternity. This shift in perspective has been catalyzed by the violence in Lebanon, prompting young individuals to see politics as a sacred vocation.
Bishop Boutros explains that the Academy operates on three levels: working with Catholic schools, training teachers, and the Academy itself. This multifaceted approach aims to empower young people to become builders of peace and advocates for social justice.
One of the key aspects of the Academy is its focus on practical social and political teaching. Students are actively engaged in humanitarian causes such as supporting refugees, defending human rights, and responding to crises like the Beirut explosion in 2020. The Academy not only educates but also mobilizes young people to take action and create networks of friendship for a better future.
Bishop Boutros emphasizes the importance of unity in creating positive change. He believes that together, through the Academy, young individuals can make a significant impact on Lebanon and beyond. By working together and standing up for justice, these young leaders are paving the way for a brighter future.
Join us in celebrating the incredible work of the Leadership Academy for Peace and the young change-makers it is empowering in Lebanon and the Middle East!
