A Priests DJing Spills into Lebanon's Nightlife Scene, Sparking Cheer and Controversy
Padre Guilherme, a 52-year-old priest from Portugal, brings his passion for faith to two distinct worlds - the pulpit by day and the turntables by night. His latest stop in Beirut has ignited both admiration and criticism among locals.
Guilherme's unique blend of spirituality and electronic music has captivated millions worldwide, with a staggering 2.6 million followers on Instagram. This is his first show in Lebanon, a country where Christianity makes up roughly one-third of the population. The Maronite Catholic community, to which Guilherme belongs, is the largest Christian group in the Middle East.
On Saturday night at Beirut's AHM nightclub, hundreds of ravers enthusiastically welcomed Padre Guilherme as he spun tracks that showcased his faith as a means of promoting coexistence and peace. Images of Pope Francis, John Paul II, and white doves were projected onto large screens behind him, further emphasizing the connection between spirituality and music.
For some, however, this fusion of faith and entertainment has sparked controversy. Eighteen individuals, including Christian religious officials, submitted a petition to the judiciary calling for the show's cancellation, labeling it an affront to their faith. The court rejected the petition, but the venue took precautions by ensuring security presence and refraining from displaying any religious symbols.
Padre Guilherme himself acknowledged the criticism, stating that those objecting may see him as scandalous, but urging them to pray for him instead. Before his performance, he had delivered a sermon alongside a Lebanese priest at a university auditorium filled with both youth and older attendees.
Social media reactions reflected this dichotomy. Some people expressed discomfort with what they saw as the trivialization of faith in an entertainment setting, while others praised Guilherme for using modern methods to connect young people with their spirituality.
Padre Guilherme's visit coincided with a time of heightened tension in Lebanon, with ongoing conflict between political groups and sects. The recent Pope Leo XIV visit, which emphasized peace and dialogue, resonated particularly well with the country's youth.
In his own words, Padre Guilherme asked: "Why can't we live like that on earth?" He pointed out that respect is a universal value to be seen in dance floors where people of different backgrounds come together. As he mixed tracks at AHM nightclub, waving a Lebanese flag and playing a song for the nation, it was clear that this priest's message of unity transcended borders.
As Beirut continues to navigate its complex web of crises and internal conflicts, Padre Guilherme's infectious energy serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope. And through his music, he invites us all to join him on this journey towards coexistence, respect, and peace.
Padre Guilherme, a 52-year-old priest from Portugal, brings his passion for faith to two distinct worlds - the pulpit by day and the turntables by night. His latest stop in Beirut has ignited both admiration and criticism among locals.
Guilherme's unique blend of spirituality and electronic music has captivated millions worldwide, with a staggering 2.6 million followers on Instagram. This is his first show in Lebanon, a country where Christianity makes up roughly one-third of the population. The Maronite Catholic community, to which Guilherme belongs, is the largest Christian group in the Middle East.
On Saturday night at Beirut's AHM nightclub, hundreds of ravers enthusiastically welcomed Padre Guilherme as he spun tracks that showcased his faith as a means of promoting coexistence and peace. Images of Pope Francis, John Paul II, and white doves were projected onto large screens behind him, further emphasizing the connection between spirituality and music.
For some, however, this fusion of faith and entertainment has sparked controversy. Eighteen individuals, including Christian religious officials, submitted a petition to the judiciary calling for the show's cancellation, labeling it an affront to their faith. The court rejected the petition, but the venue took precautions by ensuring security presence and refraining from displaying any religious symbols.
Padre Guilherme himself acknowledged the criticism, stating that those objecting may see him as scandalous, but urging them to pray for him instead. Before his performance, he had delivered a sermon alongside a Lebanese priest at a university auditorium filled with both youth and older attendees.
Social media reactions reflected this dichotomy. Some people expressed discomfort with what they saw as the trivialization of faith in an entertainment setting, while others praised Guilherme for using modern methods to connect young people with their spirituality.
Padre Guilherme's visit coincided with a time of heightened tension in Lebanon, with ongoing conflict between political groups and sects. The recent Pope Leo XIV visit, which emphasized peace and dialogue, resonated particularly well with the country's youth.
In his own words, Padre Guilherme asked: "Why can't we live like that on earth?" He pointed out that respect is a universal value to be seen in dance floors where people of different backgrounds come together. As he mixed tracks at AHM nightclub, waving a Lebanese flag and playing a song for the nation, it was clear that this priest's message of unity transcended borders.
As Beirut continues to navigate its complex web of crises and internal conflicts, Padre Guilherme's infectious energy serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope. And through his music, he invites us all to join him on this journey towards coexistence, respect, and peace.
can't say I'm surprised by the controversy around Padre Guilherme's DJing gig 
18 people think he's "scandalous" because he brings faith into his music? That's like saying a pizza parlor is scandalous for serving food to hungry people 
. As if spirituality and entertainment can't coexist, it's just a case of some people being uncomfortable with change 
. But you know what? I'm all for Padre Guilherme spreading his message of unity and respect through music 
. Maybe it's time we rethink the idea that faith has to be confined to a traditional church setting 
. Who knows, maybe Padre Guilherme's unorthodox approach will be the spark Lebanon needs right now 
️.
he's trying to spread love and unity thru his music which is dope but also gets butchered when ppl take it out of context. anywayz i think it's cool how the young ppl in lebanon are vibin w/ him and getting turned on 2 the idea of coexistence & peace, that's what matters! 
Like, what's next? A monastery with a sick drum machine? 
.
. It's all about respect and understanding, you know? 
Padre Guilherme's words of coexistence and respect are music to my ears 
) and try to live like that on earth 
.
Either way, I'm here for it, Padre Guilherme's got my vote 
. Still, I guess it's all about perspective - if you're feeling down and need a pick-me-up, maybe his show would be just what the doctor ordered 
.
! For me, it's about spreading positivity & unity in a world that can get pretty dark sometimes. Padre Guilherme's energy is infectious - he's got a way of bringing people together through his passion for peace & coexistence 
The fact that it's resonating with Lebanon's youth right now is like, exactly what we need more of! So here's to Padre Guilherme - keep spreading your message of love & respect, bro! 
. I mean, it's cool that he's using his platform to spread a message of unity and respect, but can't we just let everyone enjoy their own spiritual expression without drama? 
At the end of the day, Padre Guilherme's all about love, peace, and coexistence – sounds like a pretty great vibe to me 
I gotta say, I'm both stoked and confused by Padre Guilherme's DJing debut in Beirut 
. His show was like a breath of fresh air, gettin' people movin' and groovin', even if some folks were feelin' a bit miffed 
.
. Like, is this really somethin' to be played in a nightclub? That's just my two cents, but maybe it's about breakin' down barriers and showin' people that faith and fun can coexist 
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