Beirut:President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, attended a Mass service at Saint George Maronite Cathedral, celebrated by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi. The service was held in honor of Blessed Patriarchs Estephan Douaihy and Elias Hoayek.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the event was organized at the invitation of Beirut's Archbishop Boulos Abdel Sater, with Bishop Habib Botros Harb and his family donating the altar dedicated to the late Patriarchs. The ceremony was attended by Deputy House Speaker Elias Bou Saab, Information Minister Dr. Paul Morcos, MPs, senior officials, members of the Harb family, and religious clerics. Al-Rahi was assisted by Bishops Boulos Abdel Sater, Mounir Khairallah, Hanna Alwan, and Joseph Naffaa.
During the Mass, President Aoun approached the altar, where Patriarch Al-Rahi recited a prayer dedicated to the Blessed Patriarchs. A painting depicting Patriarchs Douaihy and Hoayek was unveiled, marking the beginning of the Mass following the altar dedication.
In his homily, Patriarch Al-Rahi emphasized the importance of patience, describing it as key to faith maturity and perseverance. He presented Blessed Patriarchs Douaihy and Hoayek as exemplars of this virtue. Douaihy's leadership through persecution and his contributions to the Maronite Church's historical documentation were highlighted. Al-Rahi noted Douaihy's resilience, emphasizing his relentless mission despite adversities.
Patriarch Hoayek's legacy was also praised, particularly his role in advocating for Lebanon's independence at the Paris Peace Conference. Al-Rahi highlighted Hoayek's diplomatic efforts and his dedication to establishing Lebanon as an independent nation.
Addressing contemporary issues, Al-Rahi stressed the need for patience in decision-making and dialogue to build a capable state. He called for supporting the Lebanese Army and strengthening state institutions, following a meeting in Paris regarding the army's needs. The Patriarch emphasized the importance of internal unity, dialogue, and prioritizing national interests over individual ones.
Al-Rahi concluded by urging for practical steps to support the army and consolidate the state's authority over arms and security decisions, advocating for international engagement to yield tangible results for Lebanon.