Prelate's Virtual Trip to Lebanon

Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz had the opportunity to visit online with many families in the Middle East, despite the ongoing pandemic.

The Prelate of Opus Dei wanted to spend time with people of the Work and their families in Lebanon, a country that is going through a period of great suffering. He listened to their questions, consoled them in their pain, admired their strength, and laughed with their children in a gathering that took place in dozens of living rooms in the Middle East.

Approximately 120 families connected online from their own homes. The screens showed everyday scenes, with people gathered around the camera, children fidgeting, parents and grandparents listening, and many people waving flags.

"I am very happy to be able to be connected with Lebanon, a very dear country for many reasons," he began. And he highlighted the fact that "Jesus was there, at least in the south of the country;" the same Jesus who is present in the Eucharist.

The questions came from both men and women, speaking in Arabic. Rebecca, who is Lebanese and resides in Rome, translated everything. The Prelate's answers revolved largely around hope: "It is a supernatural virtue. Ask our Lord to increase our faith and, with faith, our hope."

The meeting lasted about an hour. Before it ended, the Prelate expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be with them and said that he was praying a lot for everyone in Lebanon, while asking them to pray for the Pope and the Work. When giving a final blessing, he asked that our Lord be present in the families, intentions, work and joy of everyone listening to him. He said goodbye with another "thank you" and a big smile, waving to the hundreds of people accompanying him online, more than 2,000 kilometers away.