A statement was issued by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Rai, stating: "To our esteemed brothers, the bishops, and to the esteemed superiors and general presidents of our Maronite Church, as well as to its priests, monks, nuns, and all its beloved sons and daughters.
I am pleased to share with you a significant good news that His Holiness Pope Francis has agreed to declare the beatified martyrs, the three Masabki brothers, among the saints, without the need for a miracle, as they are martyrs of faith.
Procedural actions are now underway to prepare for the celebration of their declaration as saints on the altars of the universal Church. We have entrusted our brother Bishop John-Rafik Al-Warsha with following up on this matter with the Congregation for Saints.
We seek their intercession so that our Maronite Church remains a witness to Christ in Lebanon and Syria, their homeland and the place of their martyrdom, as well as in all countries of the Middle East and the diaspora.
We extend our congratulations to you all, thanking God for speaking to us through the beatified and saints of our Church, that all may heed His call. With my love, prayers, and apostolic blessing."
