Discourse of Pope Benedict XVI at the letter of Presentation of Ambassador of Lebanon
(November 17, 2008) Lebanon is the cradle of an ancient culture that has radiated throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, and the country of many faiths that have shown they can live together in brotherhood and cooperation. Rich in its diversity, the Lebanese people has a deep love for his land, its culture and its traditions, while remaining faithful to its vocation of universal openness, said Pope Benedict XVI. He was addressing the Ambassador of Lebanon, Georges Chakib El Khoury, at the presentation of the credentials at Rome on Monday, 17th of November. Given its rich heritage, Lebanon should be like a laboratory for finding effective solutions to the conflicts in the Middle East said the Pontiff. The Holy Father then appreciated the courageous efforts made by Lebanon in recent months to restore political and the national institutions to their normal peaceful situation. The Pope warmly noted the "national dialogue" during the past few weeks which has given an opportunity to clarify the challenges the country had been facing and to seek the necessary solutions for the same. The Pope then added that there is the need to move on the path of the recent Doha Agreement, to build the Lebanese Institutions. But the basic attitude that should guide everyone in this commitment to the common good must remain unchanged. For this, a true education of consciences to peace, reconciliation and dialogue must be promoted and developed, especially to younger generations, added the Pope. This lasting peace, which is a profound aspiration of all Lebanese, is possible with the desire to live together on the same land, and consider justice, reconciliation and dialogue. Reminding the recent beatification in Beirut of Father Jacques Haddad, Yaacoub Abouna, apostle of mercy and fiery preacher of the Word of God, the Pontiff said that he invites Catholics to be among their compatriots in deep communion with their pastors, artisans ardent of unity and brotherhood.
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