Your Excellency, Dear Sir/Madam,

Dear Delegate of the Order to Malteser International,

I am sure that you are already aware of the terrible and dramatic events which overtook the Lebanese Capital Beirut on Monday, which were reported in our press release earlier today. Up to 300,000 people are thought to have lost their homes in a disaster that has stuck amidst one of the most significant economic and political crises seen in Lebanon since the country was created. Malteser International is working closely with the Lebanese Association of the Order to provide relief to those affected: Mobile medical units from across the country are being mobilized towards Beirut, and volunteers are helping to care for the most vulnerable survivors.

I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere condolences and sympathy to all those affected by this disaster in the name of the Board and Senior Management of Malteser International. The Lebanon has a special place in the hearts of all those connected with the Order of Malta. It is with the names and faces of friends and colleagues in mind that our thoughts tum to prayer for all of those in the country, and for the many Lebanese overseas whose friends and loved ones may have been affected by the disaster.

I am always deeply moved by the solidarity shown by the member associations of Malteser International during times of crisis. This solidarity – in the form of prayers, moral and material support – is most sorely needed at present. I am sure that you will also be encouraged to hear that we have already gratefully received messages from national associations of the order asking how they can be of assistance. I am certain that these will not have been the last, and I would encourage those of you who may wish to help to please get in touch with the Lebanese Association in the person of H.E. President Marwan Sehnaoui or Hospitaller Mr. Paul Saghbini . You are of course also welcome to contact Malteser International through me directly, and we will work to channel your support as quickly as possible.

For Jews and Christians, the Cedar of Lebanon, whose timbers were used to build Solomon’s temple, and which appears throughout the Bible, has always been a symbol of God’s steadfast generosity and grace to us human beings: “they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the LORD is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” (Ps. 104) I hope and pray that our response to this latest series of reverses may once again help to make the Lebanese cedar a symbol of strength and trust and new life in God. Thank you once again for your unfailing support in this endeavour.

Yours Sincerely,

Ingo Radtke, Secretary General