Pope’s Address to Syrians in Lebanon: “This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things!”

Beirut, Lebanon––Speaking to tens of thousands of Middle Easterners in Lebanon this Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI expressed sadness at the latest violence in the region. Speaking directly to the Syrians watching on TV, and in person, the Pontiff said that he was very disappointed in them. “How many times have I told you to keep your hands to yourselves? This is why we can’t keep nice churches and have nice hospitals like your friends in the West! Is this the way your Father in Heaven raised you?” Some observers around Lebanon and Syria reported seeing the Syrians in the crowd sitting, docile, not daring to look up at the Holy Father as he disciplined them. The Vatican has not yet commented on how long the Syrians would be punished.