NNA - In a speech delivered at the opening of the Spiritual Exercise of the Synod of Maronite Church Bishops, Maronite Patriarch, Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, expressed hope that "peace will prevail in the countries of the Middle East."

"We pray for Lebanon's stability and for the end of its political, economic, living and security crises. We hope that a new government will be formed as soon as possible to be able to carry out its duties as an executive authority,” Al-Rahi said.

"We hope that a new president will be elected within the two months preceding the end of the current president's term, in accordance with the constitution, so that the new president will be able to steer the nation's ship with wisdom and knowledge amidst the raging waves,” the Maronite Patriarch added. 

============R.H.