lebanese Religious Leader Urges Action Following Pope’s Visit, Emphasizes National Unity
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Teh recent visit by pope Francis to Lebanon carries a powerful message of peace and hope, but its success hinges on concrete action from both Lebanese citizens and the international community, according to Sheikh Dr. Sami Abi Al-Muna, a leading figure within the Druze Unitarian sect. Speaking in an interview with al-Jadeed channel, sheikh Abi Al-Muna underscored the duty now placed upon all stakeholders to translate the Pope’s words into tangible progress for the nation.
Sheikh Abi Al-Muna described the papal visit as “blessed in its form and content,” noting the atmosphere of “joy and hope” it fostered throughout Lebanon. He emphasized that the Pope’s primary achievement was launching a vital message, encouraging the Lebanese people to persevere despite ongoing challenges.However, he cautioned that this message is only the first step. “it is as if His Holiness the Pope placed the responsibility on us and on the outside as well,” he stated, adding that action on the ground is now paramount.
The Sheikh acknowledged the immense difficulties facing Lebanon, but stressed the nation’s past resilience. “We are not saying that the visit will end all of lebanon’s problems and all of the wars around us,” he clarified, “but its importance should not be underestimated.” He likened the Pope’s presence to planting an “olive tree, the tree of peace,” emphasizing the need to nurture this symbol through dialog and national unity.
The Path to Reconciliation and Stability
Central to the pope’s message, according to Sheikh Abi Al-Muna, was a call for reconciliation. However, he posed a critical question: “Have we defined the goal, so that reconciliation between the Lebanese people is stable and the Lebanese constitution is stable?” He asserted that the ultimate goal must be the strengthening of the state and its institutions.
Sheikh Abi Al-Muna recounted a reassuring hour-long meeting with the Pope, during which His Holiness demonstrated a deep understanding of Lebanon’s complex realities, including the ongoing aggression from its southern border. the Pope, he said, recognized Lebanon’s need for international support, acknowledging the limitations of the Vatican’s direct power but highlighting its “soft and strong diplomacy” and extensive global connections.”we wished for him to keep Lebanon in his heart, and to influence the decision-making countries, in order to end the wars and prevent the recurrence of the war in Lebanon,” Sheikh Abi Al-Muna explained.
National Unity as a Shield
The Sheikh underscored the critical importance of internal cohesion, stating, “I told His Holiness the Pope that national unity is the most powerful weapon, even if we do not have a powerful weapon equal to the enemy’s.” He emphasized the interconnectedness of Lebanon’s religious communities, asserting that “we cannot live without Christians, and Christians also cannot live without Muslims, as we all need each other.”
He concluded with a call to action, urging all Lebanese – spiritual authorities, politicians, and citizens alike – to embrace the Pope’s message and invest in a future of peace and stability. “Today we have the responsibility of how to invest in this message and mobilize the Lebanese people and the world around us, in order
