Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Beirut (Agenzia Fides) - The Franciscans of the Order of Conventional Friars Minor are in Lebanon to spread peace and hope, in a land afflicted by conflict and marked by poverty. They have been there fulfilling their mission for over 40 years and have not been discouraged by the problems, the fatigue, and the violence they have had to face on this mission. In the fraternal spirit of the “Poverello” of Assisi (St. Francis), they continue to offer a testimony of simplicity, dialogue, openness, and prayer, even in the midst of seemingly desperate situations.
In honor of the 40th anniversary of their presence in the city of Sin el Fil (1968-2008) and for the 20th anniversary of the inauguration of the church and convent dedicated to Saint Anthony (1998-2008), the Franciscans in Lebanon joined with friends, benefactors, and members of the community of faithful, to celebrate these events, thanking the Lord and sending out a message of reconciliation and hope for the future of the “Land of the Cedars.”
Minister General Friar Marco Tasca and the brothers of the Middle East Delegation all came together in the church of Saint Anthony of Padua in Sin el Fil, to celebrate a Mass with the Bishop, priests, and Catholic faithful of various rites who came together from all different parts of the country.
The Eucharist was presided by the Minister General, who recalled the foundational stages of the mission, the difficulties, and their presence and commitments in a country that plagued by civil war (1975-1990) and marked by great political and economic instability. Their presence is a “sign of our hope and faith in the Lord and in His Providence,” the brothers said.
After the Mass, participants celebrated with festivities in honor of the occasion. There are currently 7 Franciscan friars in Sin el Fil, of various ages and nationalities. The community is called to explore new horizons as it is working towards the opening of a second convent in Zahle (Bekaa), intended for housing the local vocations that the Lord is sending them. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/4/2008; righe 27, parole 341)
