Greek Orthodox Patriarch of
the Levant and Antioch Youhanna X Yazigi held a mass on Sunday at Saint
Nicholas Cathedral in Ashrafieh on the occasion of his visit to the
Beirut Bishopric.
President Michel Sleiman, Prime Minister Najib Mikati and
Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Beshara Boutros Rai were among several politicians
and clergymen attending the mass.
Throughout the homily, Patriarch
Youhanna X Yazigi thanked president Sleiman and other officials for their
efforts and added that the church would engage in a dialogue if it were based on
mutual respect.
Patriarch Yazigi said that
the church will offer help for youths, women and families in light of the harsh
economic and social conditions.
“Muslims are partners in the nation, and our ties with them go
beyond coexistence; we share with them the responsibility to build a [better] future and confront
dangers,” Patriarch Yazigi said.
Following the mass, Beirut Greek Orthodox
Metropolitan Elias Aoudeh held a luncheon
at the Bristol Hotel in honor of Patriarch Yazigi.
For the full report, watch the VIDEO above