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Beirut Blast Reverberates in Lebanese Diaspora

Nicolas Pinault

   PARIS - The massive explosions in Beirut that killed more than 130
   people and injured thousands is triggering an outpouring of aid and
   support from across the world, and especially among the Lebanese
   diaspora. One of the largest communities is in France, where many are
   watching events in their troubled homeland with growing concern.

   In the heart of Paris, Our Lady of Lebanon cathedral is a place to
   gather for celebrations and important events for the Lebanese diaspora.
   Today, many here are trying to make sense of the tragedy in Beirut.
   A priest, Father Fadi el Mir, told VOA he is still processing the
   enormous shock created by this tragic explosion. He said he received
   many videos from Beirut and still cannot fully express with words his
   despair and pain.
   Karim Sfeir is a 21-year-old student originally from Byblos, some 75
   kilometers from Beirut. Luckily for him, his family is safe but he has
   many friends who are in need. He has been checking his phone constantly
   since the explosions.
   He explained everyone is monitoring the situation and talking about
   what happened on social media like WhatsApp.
   In Beirut, an estimated 300,000 people lost their homes after the
   deadly blasts. In Paris, the diaspora is rushing to help by sending
   money and organizing donations to assist those in need in the
   motherland.
   Father Fadi El Mir says several charities in Paris are raising money
   for Lebanon. The effort will go on to help those in distress there.
   Besides being abroad, he says his roots are still in Lebanon.

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