His Eminence Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, Vice President of the Supreme Shiite Islamic Council, received a letter from His Holiness Pope Leo
In his message, the Pope emphasized that Lebanon “always reminds us that living together is possible despite all the challenges and difficulties.”
The text of the message was as follows:
“His Eminence Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib Al-Khatib, Vice President of the Supreme Islamic Shiite Council in Lebanon,
I am pleased to extend to Your Eminence my fraternal greetings and best wishes, hoping that you and all your assistants will be in perfect health and well-being.
After my return from my apostolic visit to Lebanon, recalling all that the Almighty God has bestowed upon us with His abundance of mercy and generosity, and carrying in my heart feelings of appreciation for the dear people of Lebanon, I would like to express to you my thanks and appreciation for your Eminence for your participation in the ecumenical and interfaith meeting in Martyrs’ Square in Beirut, and for your eloquent words for the good of humanity.
I still keep in my heart the friendly meeting I had with you at the papal embassy, which left a good impression on me, and I read your letter that you delivered to me with great interest.
Lebanon, with its different religions, always reminds us that living together is possible despite all the challenges and difficulties. Therefore, I see, as you can see, that we bear a great responsibility before God and the people, which is to continue to encourage all the people of this country to engage in sincere dialogue, mutual love, and the tireless pursuit of peace, so that the people of Lebanon can enjoy a better future.
May Almighty God grant you continued wellness, and guide your steps on the path of goodness and righteousness.”
