Pope Leo XIV prayed for peace in Lebanon and the protection of Maronite faithful worldwide during the Angelus in Castel Gandolfo, according to Vatican reporting by Linda Bordoni. The pontiff’s remarks followed the weekend beatification of Patriarch Elias Hoayek, who led the Maronite Church from 1899 to 1931.
Beatification of Patriarch Elias Hoayek in Lebanon
Cardinal Marcello Semeraro presided over the beatification Mass on Saturday in Dimane, serving as the personal envoy of Pope Leo XIV, according to Vatican reports. During the homily, Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rai described Hoayek as a pastor whose holiness tied directly to his service for both the Church and the Lebanese nation.
Did you know? Blessed Elias Hoayek is widely remembered in Lebanese history as the “Father of Greater Lebanon” for his vital role in shaping the nation’s political and social landscape during the early 20th century.
Legacy of the Maronite Church Leader
Pope Leo XIV described the newly beatified patriarch as a man of dialogue and hope who served as a shining point of reference in ecclesial, social, and political life, Vatican media reported. Cardinal Rai noted that Hoayek worked to feed starving populations during the 1916 famine and defended Lebanon’s identity and sovereignty at the 1919 Paris Peace Conference.
Key Humanitarian Contributions
- Led the Maronite Church for more than thirty years with pastoral sensitivity, according to Pope Leo XIV.
- Founded the Congregation of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family.
- Provided relief to starving citizens during the severe famine of 1916, as noted by Cardinal Rai.
- Advocated for national sovereignty and education at international diplomatic forums.
FAQ Section
Who was Blessed Elias Hoayek?
Who presided over the beatification Mass?
Cardinal Marcello Semeraro presided over the beatification Mass in Dimane as the personal envoy of Pope Leo XIV, Vatican media reported.
What did Pope Leo XIV pray for during the Angelus?
Pope Leo XIV prayed that the intercession of Blessed Elias Hoayek would obtain the gift of peace for the people of Lebanon and strengthen Maronite faithful across the globe.
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