BLESSED BROTHER ESTEPHAN NEHME

(1889-1936)

EARLY LIFE

Youssef Nehme, later known as Brother Estephan, was born on March 8, 1889, in Lehfed, Lebanon, into a devout Maronite family. From a young age, he was known for his quiet nature and deep spirituality. He enjoyed solitude, prayer, and reflection more than social gatherings.

He often led his family in evening prayer and had a special devotion to the Virgin Mary, meditating deeply on each word of the Rosary.

MONASTIC JOURNEY

At age 16, Youssef joined the Lebanese Maronite Order at the Monastery of Saints Cyprian and Justina in Kfifan. Eight days later, he received the novice’s habit and took the name Estephan.

He took his vows on August 23, 1907, and spent 31 years serving in various monasteries, including Mayfouk, Jbeil, Houb, Kfifan, Kattara, and Annaya. Known as a “worker monk,” he labored in agriculture, carpentry, and construction with exceptional dedication.

DEATH & ENDURING LEGACY

While resolving a land dispute for the Order, Brother Estephan suffered sunstroke, leading to a severe fever and a stroke. He passed away peacefully on August 30, 1938, at age 49.

His obituary described him as strong, kind, humble, and devoted to his monastic vows. When his grave was opened in 1951, his body was found incorrupt, and pilgrims began flocking to his tomb seeking healing and intercession.

VENERATION & BEATIFICATION

In recognition of his virtuous life and miraculous healings attributed to him—especially the healing of his niece, Sister Marina Nehme, from bone cancer—Brother Estephan was declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI on December 17, 2007. He was beatified on June 27, 2010, at Kfifan.

His life remains a testament to simplicity, humility, and holy labor. The Maronite Order prays for his canonisation alongside Saints Charbel, Rafqa, and Nimatullah.

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