Pope Francis Sunday encouraged protesters in Lebanon who have taken to the streets to challenge government corruption and mismanagement of finances. The pope's message coincided with a series of protests taking place in countries around the world.
"I address a special thought to the beloved Lebanese people, in particular to the young people, who in recent days have made their cry heard in the face of challenges and the social and economic problems of the country," Pope Francis said in his Angelus address Oct. 27.
Protests in Lebanon began Oct. 17 after the government announced a new tax on internet-based calls made over WhatsApp. Lebanon has high levels of public debt and low employment.
The peaceful protestors' chants include "Revolution! Revolution!" and "All of them means all of them!" calling for the removal of all corrupt government officials.
"I urge everyone to seek the right solutions in the way of dialogue," Pope Francis said.
"I pray, Virgin Mary, Queen of Lebanon, so that, with the support of the international community, that country will continue to be a space of peaceful coexistence and respect for the dignity and freedom of every person, for the benefit of the entire Middle East Region," he said.
Protests also took place this week in Hong Kong, Iraq, Chile, Egypt, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and India.
Pope Francis spoke out about the protests in Lebanon 11 days after they began.
source : catholicnewsagency
