Maronite priest says war has not divided Lebanese Christians, Muslims

Published: 2006-07-21

FORDS, N.J. (CNS) -- The war in Lebanon has failed to divide Lebanese Christians and Muslims, said a Maronite Catholic priest in Lebanon, and "their unity is the only way to survive." "Dialogue is the only way to solve problems between countries," said Father Charles Ksas, a parish priest in Bziza, Lebanon, a village near Tripoli, in northern Lebanon. "This war failed to divide the Lebanese," Father Ksas said in an e-mail from Lebanon July 21. "Christians and Muslims are both damaged, and they have found that their unity is the only way to survive." Father Ksas said relatives of his parishioners traveled to Bziza to escape the dangers of Beirut. The parish was hosting four Muslim families -- women and children -- whose homes were destroyed. "We support all and help all. Christians and Muslims alike, there is no difference," the priest said. Father Ksas said the Lebanese did not expect to be drawn into a war.

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