Wednesday, July 09, 2025

Miracle-working saint’s story comes to life in beautiful new book

The people of Lebanon have long loved St. Sharbel Makhlouf (often spelled St. Charbel), but the “Miracle Monk of Lebanon” isn’t as well known in the rest of the world. 

That’s a shame, given his incredible story and the abundance of healing miracles God has worked through his intercession.  

The great news is that now we can all get to know him better, thanks to a beautiful new graphic novel, St. Sharbel of Lebanon, Saint of Wonders, which will bring his story of hope to countless more people around the world.

The “Miracle Monk of Lebanon”

On the surface, St. Sharbel Makhlouf’s life seemed like that of many other monks. Born in 1828, he lived for 19 years at the Monastery of St. Maron, then 23 years at a nearby hermitage. He was devoted to prayer, manual labor, and contemplative silence. 

But his quiet life set the scene for a profound union with God. His miracle working was such that when he died his superior wrote:

“What God will perform after his death will be sufficient proof of his exemplary behavior in the observance of his vows, to a degree such that we can say that his obedience was angelic, not human.”

The miracles

God worked wonders through this humble saint. Since 1950, when the monastery began to formally record the miraculous healings, they have archived more than 29,000 miracles. 

Both Muslims and Christians in Lebanon love and honor him. His healing power extends to all who seek God’s aid.

A labor of love brings his story to life

The Family of St. Sharbel USA has created something truly special with their new graphic novel. 

The “Miracle Monk” belongs not only to Lebanon but also to the whole world. 

The Family of St. Sharbel is a lay movement dedicated to spreading the Gospel through the spirituality of St. Sharbel.

Global family

Founded in 1994 after a mystical experience by Raymond Nader, it is active globally. Their activities include prayer events, both online and in person; divine liturgies; retreats; charitable works; sacramentals distribution; and catechizing through digital media, including YouTube, podcasts, social media and a newsletter (you can sign up here!). 

Their team worked three years to produce this book that will introduce him to many more people. Currently, it is available in Arabic, French, and English, with Spanish and Portuguese translations in progress.

The book doesn't just tell his story but reveals his Maronite spirituality and Lebanese culture. 

Maronite Catholics are members of an Eastern Catholic Church in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. 

As Pope St. John Paul II said, "The Church must breathe with her two lungs!" 

This book offers Western Catholics a beautiful introduction to their Eastern Catholic brothers and sisters.

An invitation to encounter God 

In our age of digital distraction and spiritual seeking, St. Sharbel offers something countercultural. He found God in silence, solitude, and prayer. His Eastern Catholic spirituality provides wisdom that enriches the entire Church.

This new book offers a beautiful entry point into the life of this beloved modern saint. The Family of Saint Sharbel USA invites you to discover St. Sharbel's story, join their prayer community, or simply begin a conversation with this gentle saint who continues to bring God's healing to our world. 

In a time when we all need hope, St. Sharbel reminds us that God's love is always available to those who seek it with sincere hearts.