The Metropolitan of Beirut for the Greek Orthodox, Bishop Elias Audi, cautioned against the prevalent culture of blame and accusation of treason, stating, “It would be preferable if everyone in this country acknowledged their actions.”
Reflecting on Lebanon’s current challenges during his homily, Bishop Audi denounced the erosion of democratic values and the rise of chaos and disorder. “Our country is declining because it is losing the foundations of its democracy and descending into chaos, demagoguery, authoritarianism and disorder.”
“How can a country grow and flourish without a president to lead it according to its constitution? How can a country thrive when its army is weakened? How can a country enjoy stability and prosperity while weapons are rampant, borders are porous, its judiciary is subdued, its administrations are emptied of competencies, the state’s decisions are confiscated, and war is imposed on it and its citizens? How can a state be built when some overpower it, some exceed its decisions and some ignore its existence?” he asked.
In conclusion, emphasizing the need for self-examination and introspection, Audi explained that “even honorable politicians, few as they are, have not been spared from their defamation, nor have the artists who raise Lebanon’s name worldwide, nor the writers, intellectuals, journalists, or even religious figures with their diverse orientations.”
