Patriarch Raï Hopes Aoun's Washington Visit Brings Good to Lebanon

At the patriarchal residence in Diman, Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Raï received several church, official, and popular delegations.

He welcomed a delegation from the family of the late Antoine Mer'ab, led by Boutros Younes, head of the Agricultural Center in Aaqoura. The visit aimed to thank His Beatitude for his condolences to the family and for sending a patriarchal message on the occasion of their deceased relative's passing. The meeting also addressed agricultural and developmental conditions in Aaqoura, as well as the general situation in the country.

Patriarch Raï also received George Maawad, president of Taj Mills, accompanied by Jack Elias. Discussions focused on university affairs, with the Patriarch emphasizing the importance of respecting academic standards in university admissions, especially in medical fields, to preserve the quality of education and professional responsibility.

The Patriarch concluded his meetings by receiving a large delegation from the Maronite Diocese of Tripoli, headed by Bishop Youssef Soueif, the diocesan shepherd. The group included the diocese's priests, staff of the bishopric, representatives of religious orders, brotherhoods, apostolic movements, pastoral bodies, alongside MP Elie Khoury and several community figures. This visit is part of an annual tradition maintained by the diocese to visit the patriarchal residence in Diman.

In his speech, Bishop Soueif affirmed the diocese members' support for the Patriarch in his ecclesiastical and national mission, expressing their joy over the imminent beatification of Patriarch Elias Boutros al-Houeik, which represents a new symbol of hope for the Church and Lebanon.

Patriarch Raï welcomed the delegation, considering the annual meeting as a reflection of deep church fellowship. He underscored that the beatification of Patriarch Elias Boutros al-Houeik represents a historic milestone for Lebanon, as he combined sanctity with national vision and was among the foremost defenders of Greater Lebanon, thus deserving to remain an example in service to the Church and the nation.

He also called for prayers to accompany the President of the Republic's visit to the United States, expressing hope that its outcomes will bring good to Lebanon and its people, contributing to strengthening stability and restoring confidence in the state and its institutions.

The Patriarch affirmed that despite the challenges Lebanon faces, it remains a land of hope, with its saints and blesseds, foremost among them the Blessed Patriarch Elias Boutros al-Houeik, continuing their intercession for its mission and future.

The meeting ended with the Patriarch granting the attendees his paternal blessing, wishing the Diocese of Tripoli continued success in its spiritual and national mission, and Lebanon peace, unity, and prosperity.