(Vatican Radio ) On the evening of Sunday 16th September , Pope Benedict XVI ended
his Apostolic Journey to Lebanon. The last official appointment of his schedule was
the Farewell Ceremony at Beirut's International "Rafiq Hariri" Airport in the presence
of the four Patriarchs, religious representatives and civil authorities, including
the President of the Republic
Seàn-Patrick Lovett tells us what he said:
listen...
Departure
speeches can often be very formal and simple expressions of gratitude to the host
nation and its religious and political authorities. But Pope Benedict’s farewell to
Lebanon was something more: “I leave with regret”, he said. Referring to “one of those
renowned oriental spices which enriches the taste of food”, the Pope said the special
warmth and affection people had added to the consideration and respect traditionally
offered all guests visiting the Middle East, made him wish to return.
In thanking
all the people of Lebanon for both their cordiality and enthusiasm, the Pope made
special mention of the Muslim communities. He noted how their presence contributed
to the success of his journey, and said: “In these troubled times the Arab world,
and indeed the entire world, will have seen Christians and Muslims united in celebrating
peace”.
His final words to the country, and to the whole of the Middle East,
were to courageously resist “all that could destroy or undermine peace” and “to permit
the plurality of religions traditions and not listen to the voices of those who wish
to prevent it”. In fact, the Pope said he was grateful for all the encounters, official,
festive and religious, he had enjoyed and for the prayer offered by all and for all
– “whatever their origins or religious beliefs”.