Beirut, Lebanon – In the aftermath of the devastating explosion at Beirut Port, which tore through the heart of the capital on August 4, 2020, many families are still grappling with the loss and trauma it inflicted. Among them are the siblings Rima and Elias Fares, who lost their father in the tragic event. In the face of such overwhelming grief, the Fares siblings have found solace and strength in their Christian faith.
The explosion, one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history, claimed the lives of over 200 people, injured thousands, and caused extensive damage to the surrounding neighborhoods. For Rima and Elias, the impact was deeply personal. Their father, who was working at the port that day, died under the rubble, leaving them to confront a profound loss.
As they navigate their mourning process, the siblings shared how their religious beliefs have provided them with comfort and a sense of community. They recounted attending church services, where prayers and the supportive presence of fellow congregants offered them a reprieve from their solitude and sorrow.
Elias, speaking softly yet with a firm belief in his voice, explained, “Our faith teaches us about resilience and hope. It reassures us that we are not alone in our suffering, and that there’s a bigger plan for us all.” The church, for him and his sister, has been a sanctuary where they can grieve freely and seek peace.
Rima, reflecting on the moments shared with their father, emphasized the importance of memories in keeping her father’s spirit alive. She has turned to community gatherings and even social media platforms to connect with others who have experienced similar losses. “Sharing our stories has helped bridge the gap between our profound personal losses and the collective grief our city endures,” she said.
Experts in grief counseling underscore the importance of such community connections and spiritual support in coping with trauma and loss. Dr. Samira Khalil, a psychologist specializing in trauma, explains that faith can play a critical role in the healing process. “For many, religious traditions and community support provide a framework through which the incomprehensible can be understood, and healing can gradually begin,” Khalil noted.
The resilience of the Fares siblings is mirrored in the broader Beirut community, which despite the physical and psychological scars, continues to rebuild and recover. Efforts from local nonprofits and international aid organizations have aimed at restoring the damaged infrastructures and providing mental health support to those affected.
As Lebanon faces ongoing economic challenges and political instability, the story of the Fares family serves as a poignant reminder of the capacity for human resilience and solidarity. It underscores a palpable need for continued support and resources to help communities like theirs heal and rebuild.
In their journey toward recovery, Rima and Elias have also been active in advocating for justice and accountability regarding the explosion. They participate in community vigils and work with advocacy groups, demanding transparency and answers from the authorities responsible for the port’s safety.
Their commitment to seeking justice is intertwined with their healing process, as Elias asserts, “Honoring our father’s memory means fighting for the truth, so that no other family has to endure what we have.”
As the city of Beirut slowly picks up the pieces, the story of the Fares family remains a beacon of faith and fortitude amidst the ruins—an enduring testament to the notion that even in the darkest of times, humanity’s spirit can prevail.