Welcome to the insightful world of the Order of Malta’s work in Lebanon, where a recent conference in Rome shed light on how their efforts over the past 70 years could serve as a model for the entire region. Dive into the details alongside Christine Seuss and Kielce Gussie.
Lebanon: A Beacon of Hope
Against the backdrop of turmoil in the Middle East, a conference titled “Rebuilding Lebanon While Preserving Its Religious and Cultural Diversity” took center stage in Rome. Highlighting Lebanon as a fragile yet symbolic country, the event aimed to bolster its recovery and stability.
Hosted by the Order of Malta in Rome, in collaboration with the German Embassy to the Holy See, the conference kicked off with a video message from Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun, acknowledging the Order’s unwavering commitment to the country. He underlined Lebanon’s pivotal moment and the prospects for peace and stability in the region.
President Aoun lauded the Order’s holistic approach, emphasizing its role in fostering societal dialogue beyond humanitarian aid. He also expressed gratitude to the German government for its generous support of various humanitarian endeavors that bind people to their nation.
Diversity: A Cornerstone of Stability
Operating in Lebanon, home to 18 religious communities, the Order of Malta extends aid irrespective of faith. President Aoun underscored Lebanon’s cultural and religious diversity as integral to its national identity and a linchpin for regional stability.
Grand Hospitaller Josef Blotz shared in an interview that Lebanon holds a special place in the Order’s global mission, resonating with its origins near the Holy Land. Recognizing Lebanon’s escalating needs amid crises, he hailed the country as a beacon of hope and resilience.
A Vision for Tomorrow
Despite Lebanon grappling with political and economic upheavals, the Order of Malta, in tandem with the German government, has spearheaded successful humanitarian initiatives. Blotz highlighted the collaborative efforts on the ground, emphasizing Lebanon’s progressive strides amid adversity.
The recent appointment of President Joseph Aoun has injected fresh momentum into Lebanon’s recovery efforts, aligning with the Order’s humanitarian mission. While challenges persist, the Order remains steadfast in its commitment to alleviating suffering and fostering peace.
One standout initiative is the agro-humanitarian program, a joint venture aimed at bolstering Lebanon’s agricultural sector with German support. Elias Ghadban underscored the program’s dual impact on economic and social fronts, propelling Lebanon towards self-sufficiency.
Preserving Identity, Nurturing Unity
In a region fraught with discord, Lebanon stands out for its inclusive approach, granting equal rights to Christians—a rarity in the Middle East. Cardinal Gugerotti emphasized the Vatican’s unwavering support for preserving Lebanon’s diverse fabric, a testament to the country’s unique identity.
As the Order of Malta continues its tireless efforts in Lebanon, the nation emerges as a beacon of resilience and unity, paving the way for a brighter future in the region.
