Pope's Visit Offers Hope to Lebanon's Abandoned

Staff at Lebanon's De La Croix Psychiatric Hospital eagerly anticipate Pope Francis's visit on December 2nd, viewing it as a crucial moment for recognition. Established in 1952, the Franciscan-run hospital serves approximately 800 patients, providing essential mental health care in a country where such illnesses often carry significant social stigma and state facilities are underfunded.

The hospital is preparing for the Pope's arrival, with the building being repainted and patients rehearsing for a special performance. Sister Rose Hanna shared that the visit itself is proof of the Pope's care, especially for residents often abandoned by their families. She described the hospital's survival through Lebanon's recent crises as "divine providence," highlighting the stark financial gap.

The daily cost of care for each patient is $75, while the Lebanese state provides only $15. Despite these immense challenges, the nuns and doctors express profound gratitude for the Pope's impending visit. They see it as a divine grace that will uplift them, reaffirming the sacredness of their work and assuring them they are not forgotten during this exceptionally difficult period.