Cardinal al-Rahi highlights tourism’s vital role amidst Lebanon’s economic instability

Cardinal al-Rahi highlights tourism’s vital role amidst Lebanon’s economic instability

The Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, expressed his sorrow over the rampant corruption in Lebanon, covering all aspects: political, ethical, administrative, and judicial, as well as in commercial activities.

He lamented the loss of truthfulness, the prevalence of lies, and the loss of positive will towards goodness, replaced by injustice, oppression, and arrogance. He also observed the loss of human dignity and the reflection of God#39;s image in people, leading them toward evil.

During a Sunday Mass sermon at the Summer Patriarchal Residence in Diman, he pointed out that Lebanon#39;s political action is collapsing, as instead of building, it is destructively tearing down. He cited the failure to elect a president for eleven months and the paralysis of the parliament, which has lost its legislative power.

The government is reduced to caretaking, lacking the authority to appoint. Constitutional and administrative institutions are being undermined while the spirit of hatred, grudges, and arrogance prevails. The country is held hostage by some individuals, groups, or plans, and, even more dangerously, they set aside God, His word, commandments, and teachings despite their fake religious appearances.

He questioned why the parliament could not convene and elect a president after three consecutive sessions, especially when two qualified