The Massabki Martyrs: Maronite Witnesses of Faith in Damascus

In the heart of Damascus in the summer of 1860, a quiet yet heroic story unfolded—one that remains an inspiring testament to courage, faith, and brotherhood. The Massabki Martyrs—three Maronite Catholic laymen named Francis, Abdel-Moati, and Raphael Massabki—chose to die rather than renounce Christ. Their story is not only about their martyrdom, but also about the enduring spirit of the Maronite Church and the power of faith in the face of violence.

Today, their lives are remembered in the Maronite liturgical calendar, in the faithful hearts of Lebanese Christians, and through devotional items such as Massabki Martyrs prayer cards, which keep their memory alive in homes and parishes around the world. But who were these men, what exactly happened on that tragic night, and why does their story matter so much for us today?

Let’s journey back to Damascus in the 19th century to learn about these three brothers who stood as lights in a dark time.

Damascus in 1860: A City on the Edge

To understand the martyrdom of the Massabki brothers, we must first understand the historical and political backdrop.

In the mid-19th century, tensions were running high across the Ottoman Empire. The empire’s Christian communities—especially the Maronites in Lebanon—were caught between powerful Muslim rulers and sectarian rivalries with Druze neighbors. In 1860, these tensions boiled over in Mount Lebanon, sparking a violent civil conflict between Druze and Maronite factions.

The conflict spilled into Damascus, where thousands of Christians lived, including merchants, clergy, and families like the Massabkis. At first, Christians in the city believed they were safe, shielded by local Ottoman authorities. But as violence spread, mobs began attacking Christian quarters, burning churches, looting homes, and targeting believers.

It was during this chaos that the Massabki brothers were put to the ultimate test.

Who Were the Massabki Brothers?

The Massabki family of Damascus was respected, prosperous, and devout. The three brothers—Francis, Abdel-Moati, and Raphael—were known not only for their success in business but also for their deep commitment to the Catholic faith.

• Francis Massabki: The eldest, known for his strong leadership and devotion.

• Abdel-Moati Massabki: Distinguished by his calm spirit and wisdom.

• Raphael Massabki: The youngest, remembered for his energy and deep faith.

They were not priests or monks but laymen—ordinary Christians living out their faith in a city where Christianity was often seen as a vulnerable minority religion. Their martyrdom reminds us that sainthood is not reserved for the clergy or religious, but can also be found in the lives of faithful lay people.

The Night of Martyrdom

On July 10, 1860, Damascus descended into horror. The Christian quarter was attacked, and churches—including the ancient Maronite parish of St. Mary—were burned. Priests, women, and children were killed in the streets.

The Massabki brothers sought refuge in a Franciscan monastery along with other Christians. But as the mob closed in, they were dragged out and faced with a terrifying ultimatum:

Convert to Islam—or die.

Here, the faith of the three brothers shone. Without hesitation, each declared:

“We will never renounce Christ, even if it costs us our lives.”

They were beaten and slain, their blood mingling with that of countless other martyrs of Damascus. Their refusal to compromise their faith, even when offered safety, transformed their deaths into a lasting testimony of courage and love for Christ.

Why the Massabki Martyrs Matter

The story of the Massabki brothers is not just about history—it’s about identity, courage, and witness.

1. Faith Over Fear
   In a moment of unimaginable terror, these men clung to their faith. Their example challenges us today: in a world where Christianity often faces ridicule or hostility, will we stand firm like the Massabkis?

2. Lay Witnesses
   Unlike many saints who were clergy or religious, the Massabkis remind us that holiness is possible in everyday life. Whether we are businesspeople, students, parents, or professionals, we too can live with the same faith-filled courage.

3. Maronite Identity
   For Maronites worldwide, the Massabkis represent the perseverance of their Church through centuries of hardship. Their story is a reminder that the Maronite Church has carried the cross of persecution but always remained faithful to Christ.

4. Universal Example
   Their martyrdom is not just for Maronites. It speaks to every Christian about the cost of discipleship and the joy of being faithful to Christ until the end.

Beatification and Veneration

The courage of the Massabki brothers did not go unnoticed. In 1926, Pope Pius XI beatified the three brothers, declaring them among the Church’s official martyrs. Since then, they have been celebrated each year on July 10, especially in Maronite communities in Lebanon, Syria, and around the world.

Churches, schools, and families honor them as symbols of faith, courage, and unity. Icons and prayer cards depicting the three brothers serve as reminders that their sacrifice was not in vain.

At The Eastern Church, you can find beautifully crafted Massabki Martyrs prayer cards designed to keep their memory close in your daily prayer life.

Living Their Legacy Today

So, what does the witness of the Massabkis mean for us in 2025?

1. Courage in Our Daily Lives
   We may not face violent mobs, but we all face moments where we must choose between convenience and conviction. The Massabkis remind us to choose faith, even when it costs us something.

2. Unity as a Family
   Their story is also about brotherhood. The Massabki martyrs faced death together, strengthening one another in faith. How can our families stand united in prayer and in Christ, especially in a culture that often seeks to divide?

3. Hope in Persecution
   Around the world today, many Christians still suffer persecution. The Massabkis give us a model for prayer and solidarity with those who endure suffering for the name of Christ.

Devotion Through Prayer Cards

Prayer cards are not just keepsakes—they are spiritual tools. A prayer card of the Massabki Martyrs serves as a small yet powerful reminder of their faith.

When you keep a Massabki Martyrs prayer card in your Bible, on your prayer altar, or give one as a gift, you:

• Carry a tangible reminder of courage in faith.

• Honor the legacy of Maronite saints who stood firm in persecution.

• Share their story with family and friends, spreading devotion.

These cards can also be a teaching tool, especially for younger generations who may not know the rich history of Maronite Catholic martyrs.

Conclusion: Courage for Our Time

The story of the Massabki Martyrs is not simply a tale from the 19th century—it’s a challenge to us here and now. Francis, Abdel-Moati, and Raphael remind us that faith is worth more than life itself, and that ordinary people can become extraordinary witnesses when they cling to Christ.

Their feast day, July 10, is an opportunity to honor them, learn from their courage, and ask their intercession in our own struggles.

As you reflect on their story, consider bringing their witness into your daily prayer life with a Massabki Martyrs prayer card. In holding it, you are holding a connection to a history of courage, faith, and love that continues to inspire the Church today.

“Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” — Revelation 2:10