19/07/2025
Inauguration of New Multipurpose Room at Franciscan Convent in Gemmayze
A New Space for Dialogue and Community, Donated by MIBIL
Beirut, July 19, 2025 – A heartwarming celebration took place in the heart of Beirut as the Franciscan convent in Gemmayze officially inaugurated a new multipurpose room, donated by the Italian Bilateral Military Mission in Lebanon (MIBIL). The event began with a solemn Mass led by His Excellency Cesar Asayan, Latin Bishop of Lebanon, and continued with the opening ceremony of the new facility – a space envisioned as a beacon of dialogue, solidarity, and community gathering.
The inauguration was hosted by Father Jihad Krayem, Head of the Franciscan Convent in Beirut, who welcomed all guests with heartfelt gratitude. In his speech, Father Jihad highlighted the speed and generosity with which this initiative was realized, emphasizing the profound impact of this project on the Franciscan mission.
“Today’s gathering has a special flavor. This room, offered by MIBIL, is more than just a space. It is a symbol of dialogue and of the connection we strive to build with our community,” he said.
Father Jihad also took a moment to bid farewell to Colonel Bruno Beneduce, outgoing CIMIC officer, and extended a warm welcome to his successor, Colonel Alessandro Paolucci, expressing hope for continued collaboration.
“We thank Colonel Beneduce for his steadfast support and collaboration, and we pray that the strong bond formed between the Italian Army and our Lebanese community will remain and grow even stronger.”
Colonel Bruno Beneduce, in his final public remarks in Lebanon, spoke with emotion about the meaning behind the project:
“We are here to represent the good part of Italy. Our support goes to meaningful initiatives that enhance living conditions and foster human connection. What the friars and Pro Terra Sancta are doing here is exactly what we believe in—building bridges through dialogue and solidarity.”
He further explained that this shared mission is what inspired the creation of the multipurpose room, which now stands as a physical embodiment of the partnership between Italy and Lebanon.
“This room is not just a donation; it is a message of hope, connection, and shared values. It represents us—the Italian Army, and Italy.”
In a post-event interview, Colonel Beneduce reiterated the strength of the collaboration with Pro Terra Sancta, noting:
“We’ve been working hand in hand with Pro Terra Sancta for several years now. Their work is close to the people, and it reflects the values we aim to promote. I hope this partnership continues beyond my time here.”
The event brought together key religious, military, and community figures, including: His Excellency Cesar Asayan, Latin Bishop of Lebanon, Father Jihad Krayem, Head of the Franciscan Convent in Beirut, Father Najib Ibrahim, Head of Franciscan friars in Lebanon, and Father Toufic Bou Merhi, along with several friars from Beirut and Tyre, Lieutenant Colonel Bruno Beneduce, former Head of CIMIC, Lieutenant Colonel Alessandro Paolucci, incoming Head of CIMIC, Colonel Cortone, Commander of MTC4L, Lieutenant Colonel Petrone, Deputy Commander of MIBIL, Mr. Mohamad Seklawi, Honorary Consul of Italy in Tyre, and members of the Italian Army, Pro Terra Sancta staff, and representatives of the Italian community in Lebanon
This new space will serve multiple purposes—from hosting cultural and social gatherings to educational workshops and community meetings—all with the mission of strengthening local cohesion and uplifting those most in need.
