Father Paolo’s Path to Jerusalem

On 29 July, we remember Father Paolo Dall’Oglio, whose disappearance in Raqqa in 2013 remains a deeply significant moment in the recent history of the Middle East. More than a decade later, his vision continues to inspire our work and our commitment to peace, dialogue, and solidarity.

In this video, our Chairman, Friedrich Bokern, reflects on Father Paolo’s journey, not only through the landscapes of Syria and the Middle East, but through a lifelong spiritual path that sought to bring people of different faiths together. His life was rooted in hospitality, reconciliation, and the conviction that lasting peace can only be built through encounter and mutual respect.

Father Paolo dedicated his life to rebuilding the ancient monastery of Deir Mar Musa, fostering Christian Muslim dialogue, standing in solidarity with those suffering from violence and injustice, and advocating for a future in which communities could live together with dignity. His witness continues to shape the mission of Relief & Reconciliation, from our educational Centres in Lebanon to our new Peace Centre in Kadesh, Syria, where we seek to accompany young people in rebuilding their communities through education, active learning, and spiritual solidarity.

As we commemorate the anniversary of his disappearance, we invite you to discover why his message remains as relevant today as ever, and how his legacy continues to inspire new generations of volunteers, educators, and peacemakers.

If Father Paolo’s vision speaks to you, we invite you to join us in carrying it forward.

Volunteer. Donate. Share.

Together, we can continue building bridges of peace, one encounter at a time.