On November 22, 2024, the Lebanese community in Sydney gathered to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the tragic assassination of the Late Martyred President Rene Moawad and his companions. This somber memorial, held at the Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, honoured the sacrifice of President Moawad and those who perished alongside him on Lebanon’s Independence Day, 22nd November 1989. The service brought together the community in remembrance of these figures who lost their lives while striving for a peaceful and united Lebanon.
The Mass, officiated by the Dean of Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, Fr Danny Nouh, alongside fellow clergy members and Fr Tohme from St Charbel, was a heartfelt gathering of reflection and tribute. Fr Danny Nouh delivered a stirring homily that interwove President Moawad’s final words, reminding everyone of the enduring power of unity, forgiveness, and the vision of a dignified Lebanon. President Moawad’s powerful message echoed through the church: “There can be no country or dignity without unity of the people, and there can be no unity without agreement, and there can be no agreement without conciliation, and there can be no conciliation without forgiveness and compromise.” His words served as a solemn call for peace, reconciliation, and hope for Lebanon’s future.
In addition to President Rene Moawad, the Mass commemorated the memories of General Joseph Ramia, Assaad Moawad, Joseph Bacha, Sayed Moura, Rene Kaado Moawad, Yaacoub Sakkal Moawad, and Georges Khawand. The community gathered in prayer for their eternal peace and honoured their dedication to Lebanon’s sovereignty and independence.
The event drew a wide array of dignitaries, political leaders, associations, media representatives, and community members who came together to pay their respects. Among those in attendance were Ms Julia Finn MP, State Member for Granville, representatives from the Lebanese Forces, Kataeb, UALM, Ahrar, El Marada, National Council FPM, and the Hon. Adib Abdel Massih MP. Additionally, representatives from several associations and cultural groups including the Maronite Catholic Society, World Lebanese Cultural Union, Maronite Ladies of the Gospel, Maronite Patriarchal Development Foundation, Australian Maronite Community Network, Liberal Friends of Lebanon, The Association of Zgharta Youssef Bey Karam Batal Lebnan Australia, Rydalmere FC, The Becharrie Association of NSW, Harb Association, and Mr Antoine Harbieh from Melbourne attended the ceremony. The event was also covered by notable media outlets such as Annahar, El Telegraph, Future News, Oz Arab Media, and Middle East Herald.
The Lebanese Independence Movement Sydney Memorial Mass was not only a reminder of a tragic day in Lebanon’s history but also a demonstration of resilience, shared grief, and the enduring commitment of the Lebanese diaspora to the values of independence, unity, and peace. The ceremony brought together political parties, cultural organisations, and community members across all walks of life, united in their collective memory of the past and in their hope for a better future for Lebanon.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who joined us on this special occasion. May the souls of President Rene Moawad and his companions rest in eternal peace, and may their legacy continue to inspire unity and hope for Lebanon and its people.
