The following is Message sent on behalf of the Holy Father by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to the inhabitants of the village of Debel, Lebanon:

Message

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV is glad to be able to express to you, on this Easter Day and amidst the tragic circumstances you are facing, his paternal closeness and affection. He extends his message of consolation and compassion to all Christians in southern Lebanon and to all those suffering the consequences of the war. Today, we celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection. May you, amidst your feelings of sorrow, anguish and mourning, experience today in your hearts a deeper joy: Jesus has gloriously triumphed over death. It is a joy that comes from heaven and which nothing can take from you. In your misfortune, in the injustice you suffer, in the sense of abandonment you feel, you are very close to Jesus. You are close to Him too on this Easter Day when He conquered the forces of evil, and which resonates for you as a promise of the future. So do not lose heart! None of your prayers, none of your acts of solidarity, none of the sighs of weariness you utter are lost: Our Lady of Lebanon keeps everything in her heart and brings it to her Son. Pope Leo XIV imparts the Apostolic Blessing to each one of you, and to all your loved ones.

Pietro Cardinal Parolin
Secretary of State