1.
Why in Lebanon, not elsewhere? Pope John-Paul II would give the answer,
stating again that Lebanon is more than a country, “it is a message and
model for the East as for the West” (Appeal to All the Bishops of the Catholic
Church about the situation in Lebanon, September 7, 1989). That is due
to its inter-community structure made out of 18 religious communities belonging
to the three monotheistic religions, living together in a climate of freedom,
equality before the law, and sincere collaboration.Lebanon is, besides,
a hospitable land, a crossroad of cultures and civilizations, and a gateway
between the East and the West.Christ Himself blessed this country by walking
on its soil, namely in the South. At the threshold of the Grand Jubilee
2000 of the nativity of the Saviour of mankind, let us meditate on the
great love of the Heavenly Father who sent His only Son, Jesus Christ,
who cured the diseases of the body as well as those of the soul, and redeemed
us on the Cross.We ask Him, through the intercession of His Mother and
our Mother, to help us stand, like her, on the golgotha of many suffering
brothers and sisters.
2.
Dear Brothers and sisters, who are suffering in many ways, you are in invited
by the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, to discover the saving aspect of
your suffering (cf. Salvifici doloris, 31). In union to Christ, the Redeemer,
you will grow up in Faith and contribute to accomplish the divine project
of salvation.
3.
As for all of you, who devote yourselves to save those who are suffering,
make out of your service a precious contribution to evangelization! Do
feel that you are an active part in the Church, for you give to others
the reason for the Gospel's Hope!
4.
The Civil Authorities and the scientists are called upon, as well, to humanize
medical care and medical assistance, while realizing the value of human
life and its sacred character, because man has been created in the image
of God and is His son. May the program of the World organization for Health
stimulate a competitive effective solidarity.
5.
Last but not least, the Church herself is invited to intensify her efforts
and come out with concrete projects in communion with, and in favor of
the sick and all those who are suffering. Dioceses, parishes and all ecclesial
communities should commit themselves to present the subjects of health
and sickness in the light of the Gospel.