"The National Lebanese Assembly will soon be asked to appoint the new head of State. As shown by the numerous initiatives undertaken in these days, it is a crucial passage, on which the very survival of Lebanon and its institutions depends". After the Angelus prayer, yesterday Benedict XVI wanted also to recall the difficult period which Lebanon is living. "I share the preoccupation recently expressed by the Maronite Patriarch, His Blessedness Cardinal Nasrallah Sfeir stated the Pope, and his hope for all the Lebanese to acknowledge the new president. Let us beg Our Lady of Lebanon together. Let Her inspire all the parties in question the necessary detachment from personal interests, and a real passion for common good". Finally, one thought for the Thanksgiving Day, celebrated in the Italian Church yesterday, on the subject: “Guardians of a beloved and served territory”. In these days, said Benedict XVI, "not only do farmers produce essential goods, but they are also the guardians of natural environment and its cultural heritage. Therefore, while we thank God for the gifts of creation, we pray for the workers of the earth to live and work in serenity and prosperity, taking care of environment, for everybody’s sake".
