Middle Eastern Church leaders call for peace, unity, and urgent action to end violence in Lebanon
BETH KERKE, Lebanon — During Sunday Mass in Beth Kerke (Bkerke), Syriac Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai urged for peace and the end of violence, underscoring the suffering endured by the peoples of the Middle East due to war and destruction.
He expressed particular solidarity with those remaining steadfast in their villages in south Lebanon and called for global unity in addressing these challenges. The Patriarch emphasized the urgent need for a dedicated day of prayer and fasting, aiming to foster reconciliation and bring an end to the ongoing violence.
In a separate meeting between Pope Francis and Syriac Catholic Patriarch Mar Ignatius Youssef III Younan, both leaders discussed the dire situation across the Middle East, focusing on Lebanon’s ongoing war. They called for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of peace, emphasizing the importance of international efforts to bring stability to the region.
Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Beirut and its Dependencies Bishop Elias Audi delivered a powerful Sunday sermon, calling on all Lebanese, particularly Christians and political leaders, to rise above selfishness and personal interests. He urged them to take decisive steps to save the country, stressing the pressing need to elect a president who can work with a unified government to safeguard Lebanon and halt the cycles of conflict, destruction, and displacement.
Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Awa III Royel also voiced his concern over Lebanon’s ongoing crises, highlighting the heavy burden on its people regardless of race or religion. He affirmed his full support for peace and Lebanon’s sovereignty, calling for a cessation of actions that exacerbate the suffering of the populace. He stressed that ensuring the security of Lebanon is a shared responsibility.