Cardinal Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai Affirms Lebanon's Enduring Message

Cardinal Maronite Patriarch Beshara Peter Rai presided over the concluding Mass of the Maronite Bishops' Synod at the Lady’s Church within the Patriarchal complex in Bkerke. The ceremony included the participation of the Papal Nuncio Monsignor Paolo Borgia, as well as bishops from Lebanon and the diaspora. Following the Gospel reading, Rai delivered a homily titled: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

He reflected, “As we conclude the Maronite Synod of Bishops, we look back with gratitude on the days spent together in spiritual exercise, prayer, meditation, and fraternal dialogue during the synod’s sessions. These days were a grace-filled period in which we examined the state of our Church, contemplated its mission, and reviewed our pastoral, national, and social responsibilities within a synodal spirit. Now, each of us returns to our diocese and service, to our people and their daily concerns and challenges. Every diocese has its unique circumstances, and each shepherd carries specific duties, questions, and worries. However, we do not return as we came; rather, we come back renewed in our trust in God, with hope revived in our hearts through Christ who does not abandon His Church, and strengthened in the conviction that Christ continues to lead His Church amid all circumstances. Therefore, we do not fear tribulations nor retreat before difficulties. Instead, we carry the fruits of these blessed days and set out anew to serve with greater spirit and firmer resolve. We draw strength from Christ’s word: ‘In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world’ (John 16:33).”

Rai pointed out that “the message presented by today’s Gospel is one of steadfast hope. Christ does not ask His disciples to deny the existence of tribulation but to live through it with a different spirit. Tribulation may arise in service, responsibility, witnessing to the truth, or facing the challenges of the times. Yet, the believer does not measure matters by the magnitude of hardship but by the presence of God in their life and the hope drawn from the risen Christ. Our people await a word of hope from us; they expect to see in their shepherds firmness, faith, and trust. Thus, our responsibility extends beyond managing pastoral affairs to being living signs of hope in a time marked by fears and turmoil, always pointing to Christ as the source of this hope.”

He added, “Each time we celebrate the sacred mysteries, we remember that the risen Christ is present among His Church, guiding, supporting, and empowering it. From His presence, we derive the hope that sustains us during trials and renews our zeal for service. Therefore, the synod’s conclusion is not the end of a journey but the beginning of a new phase in which we embark on our mission with hearts fuller of grace and confidence. From this standpoint, we bring the blessings we have received into the reality of our people and country, where a living testimony to Christ is urgently needed. Looking at Lebanon and the region, the Gospel speaks directly to our reality. Lebanon endures immense and ongoing pressures. Absurd wars, assaults, and violations recur, while political, economic, and social conditions continue to burden citizens. Many ask where this path leads and when the cycle of crises exhausting the people and families will end. Yet, amid this entire scene, hope is not lost. There are great tribulations in the homeland, but we carry trust and remain strong in hope through Christ, who overcomes fear and despair. This hope is not based on human calculations but on our faith that God does not abandon His people and works even amid difficulties.”

Rai emphasized, “Despite its wounds, Lebanon still carries a great message. The Church remains called to be the voice of conscience, truth, and hope. Through this synod, we renew our commitment to stand alongside our people, share their pains and aspirations, defend their dignity and rights, and support them on the path toward a better future. The gravest threat to nations is not the abundance of hardships but the loss of hope. When hope remains alive and rooted in Christ, the possibility of revival endures. For this reason, we continue to pray and work, looking forward to the success of all efforts and initiatives aimed at protecting Lebanon, enhancing its stability, and averting dangers. In facing all these challenges, our duty is to fix our eyes on the Lord, from whom we draw strength and hope. We conclude our journey with prayer and trust, glorifying the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—now and forever, Amen.”