In his Sunday homily, on the eve of the fifth anniversary of the Beirut port explosion — which he described as “the greatest catastrophe after Hiroshima” — Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai called for prayers for the victims and support for their families. He urged Judge Tarek Bitar to fully exercise his powers “to uncover the truth and deliver justice,” stressing that only an independent judiciary can stand “above all.”
Reflecting on Lebanon’s identity and mission, the Patriarch stated that the country is founded on pluralism, freedom and dialogue between cultures and religions. He cautioned, “Are we still faithful to our identity? Do we carry our mission with courage?” Calling on leaders and citizens to “restore Lebanon’s true face,” he emphasized the need to build a state governed by the rule of law, provide opportunities for the youth and act in the common interest.
On a spiritual level, he invited every believer to be “a voice of truth, a maker of reconciliation and a builder of justice,” underscoring that citizenship must not be divided into majorities and minorities, but founded on equality for all.
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