Beirut: MP Simon Abi Ramia expressed his views on the platform ‘X’, describing the visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon as a historic and exceptional event. This visit is significant as it marks the Pope’s first journey outside of Italy and the Vatican. Abi Ramia emphasized that the event highlights the importance the Church holds in the Middle East and underscores the pivotal role the Vatican envisions for the Church in Lebanon, especially amid the ongoing conflicts and disasters in the region.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Abi Ramia articulated his hope that the Pope’s visit will deliver a genuine message of peace, encouraging a shift from a mentality of war to one of love and non-violence. The visit’s timing followed several meetings between the Pope and President General Joseph Aoun in Rome, which played a crucial role in facilitating this historic visit against the backdrop of increasing tensions and the threat of war in the region.
Abi Ramia further noted that the Pope’s visit to Annaya is a matter of great pride for the Jbeil district due to its religious, touristic, and geographical significance. The area is home to the Monastery of Saint Maroun, the Shrine of Saint Charbel, and the Hermitage. He expressed hope that the visit would inspire new spiritual miracles, strengthen faith, and serve as a beacon of hope for Lebanon and the region during times that demand security and stability.