Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rahi pointed out that the Lebanese immigration has increased due to the souring economic situation and political crisis, indicating that the influx of refugees jeopardizes the Lebanese entity.
Patriarch Rahi’s fresh words on Thursday came during his patronage of the annual general assembly of the Maronite Diaspora Institute, at St. Pope John Paul II’s Hall in Bkirki,in the presence of senior bishops.
Rahi hailed the efforts undertaken by the Institute in assisting the Lebanese Diaspora across the globe to register their civil status records and preserve the Lebanese nationality, saying “this is a mighty, essential and existential work in support of the Church’s work in all its institutions.”
The Patriarch extended well-wishes to president of the Republic and the new government on the holy festive season laden with peace and blessings, hoping that they would be able to address the immense challenges ahead.
Rahi concluded by imploring the international community to shoulder its responsibility for peace in the world.
On the other hand, Rahi met with outgoing Defense Minister Samir Moqbel who presented well-wishes on the festive season.
