Bishop Eli Bashara Haddad, the shepherd of the Archdiocese of Sidon and Deir al-Qamar for the Melkite Greek Catholics, presided over the divine liturgy for the repose of the soul of the martyr journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, assisted by Cathedral priest Father Jihad Francis.
In his sermon during the mass, Bishop Haddad spoke about the virtues of the martyr, stating: "Martyr Shireen fell in the arena of journalistic mission. Journalism and truth are twins, and anyone who fears the truth kills its bearer, its transmitter, and its protector."
He asked, "Why was Shireen Abu Akleh killed?" and responded: "Because she wanted to reveal the truth. There is no doubt that the enemy's bullet was not directed at her by chance but with prior design and intent. She was courageous in revealing the realities at the front lines, which did not please the Israelis, who plotted new front lines, seeking to push her back to further lines so they could do as they pleased. What did the Israeli soldier conceal by killing Shireen? This question will reveal its secrets in the coming days, especially since the conscience of the whole world has been shaken by this event and has suffered because of it."
He added, "This world will search for the cause and the reason, and we eagerly await for the martyrdom of the brilliant journalist Shireen to become a resounding message from journalism to the world and to history that killing the truth revives it and increases its certainty, and that no one can distort it."
He concluded: "Our condolences from St. Nicholas Cathedral for the Melkite Catholics in Sidon to the family of the martyr and her companions and to the world of journalism. Our prayers accompany the pure soul of Shireen, and she will remain a champion of truth, and this is our consolation to all."
