Vatican Announces Beatification of Lebanese Patriarch Elias Hoayek
The Congregation of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family has expressed its gratitude to God for the beatification of its founder, Patriarch Elias Hoayek, who is regarded as a patron of families, priests, and Lebanon.
The congregation announced that Pope Leo XIV signed the decree declaring his beatification on Friday, May 22, 2026, and shared the news with all Lebanese people both in Lebanon and across the diaspora.
Patriarch Elias Hoayek was the 72nd Maronite Patriarch and is described as the “great Patriarch of Lebanon” and the founder of the congregation. He was also referred to by his contemporaries as a “man of divine providence” and a “holy patriarch.”
The statement said the timing of the beatification is seen as a blessing and a sign of divine favor. It highlighted Patriarch Elias as a devoted priest, caring shepherd, and visionary leader who dedicated his life to serving God, the Church, his country, and all people without distinction between religions or sects.
The congregation ended with a prayer asking for his intercession: “My God, let me live and die in Your pleasure.”
