July-August 2012
The Maronite Voice A Publication of the Maronite Eparchies in the USA Volume VIII Issue No. VII July - August 2012 Where In The World Would You Find the Freedom That We Have In This United States of America? Dear Friends: s you know, both myself and Bishop Gregory were in Lebanon Afor approximately three weeks in June to attend the Annual Maronite Bishops’ Synod and various meetings. It was a great experience for both, receiving and sharing ideas with other Maronite Bishops from around the world. On my return, as the plane flew over American soil, I began to reflect on the various countries which we passed over. My heart went out to the people of Syria, Iraq and Jordan in the Middle East where there is persecution and heartache. I realized more and more, in that part of the world where Jesus began His teachings, the people endure much danger and are even losing the faith that has been instilled in them from Apostolic times. This is due to the environment in which they live. Except for Lebanon, there is no freedom, no liberty, no justice for all, as we enjoy in this great country. I begin to ask, do our people appreciate what we have in this great land? Yes, we are not perfect, but we must remind our immigrants and natural citizens alike, that despite our defects, where in the world would you find the freedom that we have in this United States of America? Let us thank God for his goodness to all of us for we are able to live in the land of the " FREE and the HOME of the BRAVE." During this time of the year as we celebrate the Fourth of July, let us thank God for all those who continue to work and sacrifice to make this the greatest country in the world.
[Show full text]