Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Rahi stated that “Lebanon, at the core of its mission, is a homeland of diversity and multiple sects in national unity, but this mission is currently being distorted by divisions, estrangement, and political strife.”

In his sermon during the mass at Bkerke, held in the presence of the relics of Saint Thérèse, the Patriarch added: “There are vital opportunities we must not waste, including the possibility of reform and economic recovery. There are chances to move beyond the logic of conflict and opportunities to build effective public institutions that arise from a will to serve, not a will to dominate. There is also a chance to restore trust between the citizen and the state.” He stressed that “Lebanon today stands at a crossroads: either it remains in the tunnel, or it moves forward toward renewal.”

He also touched on the ongoing wars, saying: “We pray for an end to the wars between Israel and Gaza, between Israel and Iran, and between Russia and Ukraine.”

You can watch the Patriarch’s full sermon in the attached video.