Saturday, 6 April 2002
Sunday Prayer of 7 April.
Brothers and Sisters, it is so painful that, for the first time, due to reasons of warfare, you would not be able to pray in the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem. We would have very much liked to pray with you this Sunday. But, for us also, this is not possible. We call upon the faithful in Bethlehem and in all other parishes as well to pray, however, for peace in the hearts, for an end to this war and for the leaders to embark on the road of justice, which is the sole path to peace.
With regard to the conditions in the Basilica, efforts are being exerted to bring about a favourable solution to the situation. An erroneous piece of information was recently circulated which purported that the Franciscan religious members of the Basilica were taken hostages inside the convent. An official communiqué of the Custody of the Holy Land has formally refuted this wrong information. We also condemn this false information and the war of nerves that are conducted around the Basilica.
From Bethlehem, we look towards all the Palestinian towns and villages, and all the parishes, where, these days, are all subjected to war. To all, Christians and Moslems, we say: remain steadfast and do not lose courage. We are with you. Everywhere in the world, all those who uphold peace and justice, the Holy Father John-Paul II, the various churches and several political powers are now active in an endeavour to put an end to this trial. May the peace of the Lord, be and remain with you forever.
With you and for you, we shall pray tomorrow, the Feast of Annunciation, in Nazareth. May the Lord bless you and give you courage and maintain you in His peace.
+ Michael Sabbah, Patriarch