Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi called on Lebanon’s new political leadership to take immediate action to restore the country’s stability and uphold its sovereignty, emphasizing the need for unity, genuine reform, and national cohesion. 

In a sermon delivered at Saint George’s Cathedral in downtown Beirut on the occasion of Saint Maroun’s Feast, the patron saint of the Maronite Church, the Patriarch reflected on the renewed hope brought about by the establishment of the new political administration.

“By electing you, Mr. President, trust has been restored to the hearts of the Lebanese people and to both Arab and Western nations,” he said in an address to President Joseph Aoun. “This is the trust they have long awaited, and it has come after a prolonged wait, growing even stronger with the formation of the new government.”

The Patriarch’s words conveyed a sense of optimism as he acknowledged the challenges Lebanon had endured and the long-awaited return of trust in its leadership. He expressed gratitude for the new government’s efforts, urging continued progress on reforms.

“My country is a country of holiness, not a country of iron and fire; my country is a country of peace, not a country of war; my country is a country of civilization, not a country of decay; my country is a country of openness, not a country of isolation,” the Patriarch said, highlighting a vision of Lebanon rooted in peace, prosperity, and inclusion—free from the divisions and violence that have historically plagued it.

In a direct call to action, Patriarch al-Rahi urged the cessation of political procrastination and the restoration of Lebanon’s judicial independence.

“Stop the procrastination. Stop undermining the judiciary. Stop the erosion of sovereignty and dignity. Stop the assault on the constitution,” he said, addressing the country's new leadership. “The real danger facing Lebanon is slipping into a stage of decline and decay. We must align with the axis of civilization, renaissance, and progress.”

“Lebanon will stand fast no matter what,” the Patriarch affirmed, delivering a message of resilience. “We want Lebanon to remain as we all believe in it, a haven of peace.”

The Patriarch’s words underscored the urgency of preserving Lebanon’s national identity and ensuring its survival as a beacon of peace and prosperity in the region. His call for unity was further emphasized in his remarks on neutrality, a stance he sees as essential for Lebanon’s internal and external stability.

“Neutrality is not a project that contradicts individual identities and convictions, but rather a system of existence that protects pluralism in all its dimensions,” he explained.

According to Patriarch al-Rahi, neutrality is a fundamental policy that can unite Lebanon’s diverse political and religious factions, promoting trust and fostering national cohesion.

“Neutrality is internal security and external defense. This is how neutrality enhances trust among Lebanon’s various components, uniting their national and political loyalty to Lebanon,” he concluded.