In a sermon delivered in Bkerke, Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi stated that Lebanon today is in dire need of tangible action, not just words. He affirmed that the nation requires “a word of truth that transforms into just policies, a word of reconciliation that translates into decisions, and a word of promise that transforms into practical commitment.”
Al-Rahi considered that the essence of the message of incarnation carries within it a clear national call to implement principles on the ground, transform noble values into well-established institutions, and transform words into genuine responsibility. He added that achieving national salvation begins with “an honest word,” and that building a unified nation that embraces everyone and preserves their dignity is achieved through “a word that unites and protects the dignity of all.”
In the same context, al-Rahi warned of the danger of exploiting the word in spreading lies and inciting sedition, pointing out that “the word, when emptied of truth, divides and destroys,” while “the honest and responsible word builds, unites, and heals.”
In conclusion of his sermon, he called for working to restore the “word of Lebanon” and revive the language of truth, justice, and peace, stressing that “national responsibility” requires moving from words to actions, and from raising slogans to genuine commitment, in a way that preserves the nation and establishes a just and strong state.
