The Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, is visiting Lebanon between January 31 and February 4.
The Archbishop will meet with Lebanese political leaders as well as Christian and Muslim religious leaders to convey the worries of Pope Francis and his position in support of the Lebanese people and the Church during this difficult social, economic, and political stage.
Archbishop Gallagher has several visits planned in Lebanon and will participate in the opening of the symposium on “John Paul II and Lebanon” organized by the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK).
The visit of the Archbishop on behalf of Pope Francis aims to show support to the Lebanese people during these harsh times of economic crisis.
In an annual address on January 10th to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, the Pope lifted his prayer for “the beloved Lebanese people, who are working to find a solution to the economic and political crisis that has gripped the nation.”
“Necessary reforms and the support of the international community will help the country to persevere in its proper identity as a model of peaceful coexistence and brotherhood among the different religions,” Pope Francis added.
This visit also correlates with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Lebanon and the Holy See.
