Patriarch Mar Paul III Nona, Patriarch of the Chaldean Church in Iraq and throughout the world, arrived in Lebanon for an official visit lasting several days, during which he will meet with members of the Chaldean Church, review their situation, and learn about the challenges they face. His visit includes a meeting with President of the Republic General Joseph Aoun, presiding over the Divine Liturgy at St. Raphael Chaldean Cathedral in Baabda–Brazilia on Sunday, July 26, and participating in the beatification ceremony of Patriarch Elias Howayek at the Maronite Patriarchal Summer Residence in Dimane, at the invitation of Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi. Patriarch Nona was welcomed at the VIP Lounge of Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut by Bishop Michel Kassarji, Head of the Chaldean Community in Lebanon, Monsignor Raphael Traboulsi, Episcopal Vicar of the Chaldean Archdiocese of Beirut, Antoine Hakim, President of the Supreme Council of the Chaldean Community, Fr. Nabil Danno, and Vincent Zarifa, President of the Chaldean Charitable Association. Upon his arrival, Patriarch Nona held a press conference in which he presented the objectives of his visit, noting that it was “his first visit outside Iraq since his enthronement as Patriarch.” He stated that Lebanon was chosen as his first destination because it is “a beloved and important country” for the Chaldeans, adding that he came carrying a message of love and solidarity to the Lebanese people and the Church of Lebanon amid the sensitive circumstances facing the Middle East. Regarding Iraqi Christians, Patriarch Nona expressed his hope that they would regain their historic and national role, explaining that he had informed the Iraqi Prime Minister that the return of Christians to their regions requires a stable environment and genuine conditions for a dignified life. He stressed that remaining or emigrating is a personal decision, but that the Church hopes Christians will preserve their presence in their historic homeland. He explained that the challenges are not limited to security concerns but also include economic and social conditions, as well as uncertainty about the future, all of which influence decisions regarding return and stability. Patriarch Nona called on the Iraqi state to work for all Iraqis and to strengthen stability across various sectors, especially the economic and social fields, in order to build confidence in the country’s future. He also highlighted the role of the Chaldean Archdiocese of Beirut in caring for Iraqis residing in Lebanon, praising the efforts of Bishop Michel Kassarji in accompanying Iraqi migrants, many of whom consider Lebanon their first stop before moving to other countries. He emphasized that one of the main objectives of his visit is to express full support for the archdiocese and encourage the continued assistance provided by the Patriarchate in various fields. Concerning relations with the Maronite Church and his participation in the beatification ceremony of Patriarch Elias Howayek, Patriarch Nona stressed the deep bonds among the Eastern Churches, stating that the Maronite Church is “the elder sister among the Churches of the East” and that its role is central. He explained that Patriarch Howayek contributed to strengthening the concept of attachment to one’s homeland, emphasizing that Christians are called to remain in their countries and defend them despite difficulties, as their presence forms an essential part of the identity and mission of the region. He described Lebanon as “our depth and our strong support as Eastern Christians,” noting that the uniqueness of Christian presence in Lebanon gives it a special place in the hearts of the Churches of the East. Patriarch Nona also announced that during his meeting with President Joseph Aoun, he would reaffirm the Chaldean Church’s support for Lebanon and its people, renewing the message of love and solidarity in facing current challenges. Regarding his relationship with Saint Charbel, Patriarch Nona said that the saint holds a special place in his heart and in the hearts of all Eastern Christians, especially members of the Chaldean Church throughout the world. He concluded by affirming that the Lebanese Church, with its spiritual and historical heritage, enjoys great love and appreciation among Chaldeans in the East and throughout the diaspora.
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