Rai in Beirut as Cardinal, urges March14 to heed calls for dialogue ...

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Lebanese Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Rai arrived to Bkerki where he was received by popular crowds, religious figures and officials who flocked to congratulate him on his latest appointment as Cardinal.

On this occasion, Rai celebrated mass at Our Lady of Assumption Church in Bkerke.

Upon his arrival to Rafik Hariri International Airport on Tuesday afternoon, Rai saluted Pope Benedict XVI, stressing that his visit to Rome came as a result of the Pope's visit to Lebanon.

"We should face all regional challenges with love, unity and utmost responsibility," he said.

On the assassination of ISF Information Branch chief late Major General Wissam Hassan, Rai said “I reiterate my condolences to the martyr's family, the country and all those affected.” Rai saluted the ISF and LAF, stressing that these institutions safeguard Lebanon.

Addressing March14, he said that conspiracies cannot be faced save through dialogue and cooperation, stressing that calls made by Sleiman for dialogue must be heeded. “Lebanon cannot bear to lose in the face of these great challenges," he said.

On the economic situation, Rai said that 63% of the Lebanese are facing massive economic problems, stressing that issues should be addressed with calm as to be able to help the people. He warned that the country is heading towards an "economic crash", urging all officials to place interests aside for the benefit of the people.

When asked about the calls for the government’s resignation, he said “the government is not God made; it can be changed, however only through dialogue.”

Separately, Rai said that the 1960s electoral law "works against all of Lebanon", stressing that Christians and Muslims in the country should work as one for the benefit of Lebanon.

Rai held several meetings in Rome to discuss the post-Apostolic Exhortation phase in the Middle East.

The Patriarch drew a letter of thanks to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on behalf of the Maronite Church and the Lebanese people for his appointment as Cardinal.

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