Beirut: Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rahi, in his Easter message, extended greetings to Christians and all Lebanese, describing Easter as a celebration of hope and resurrection. He emphasized the importance of maintaining faith and optimism, even in the midst of adversity.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Patriarch Rahi expressed deep sorrow for the victims of the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, imposed by Hezbollah and Israel. He highlighted the plight of those displaced, families living in destroyed homes, and communities cut off from the world. The Patriarch also underscored that such suffering occurs in violation of international laws that call for the protection of civilians.
Despite these hardships, Patriarch Rahi called on all to hold onto hope and resilience, echoing the spirit of Easter as a time of renewal and perseverance. He further emphasized that schools remain committed to their mission despite the toll of war on the economy and educational community, and that the Church continues its efforts to restore Lebanon's peace, sovereignty, and independent political decision-making.
Lebanon remains committed to the President's oath, the government's ministerial statement, and decisions issued on 5 and 7 August 2025 and 2 March 2026, as well as relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including 1559, 1680, and 1701.