During his Sunday's Mass homily on Sep. 3rd, 2023 from Diman, his Beatitude Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rahi announced the launch of the “Christian Council for Development and Coordination which will be supervised on our behalf by His Excellency Mgr. Antoine
Bou Najern Archbishop of the Maronite Diocese of Antalias”.
Ho added: “| greet him, with the rest of the council's members and congratulate them on announcing its launch today.
This council comprises a group of accomplished and veteran Lebanese who are determined to plan and execute proctical development solutions to help address social aconomic, and development issues that burden the citizen,
and to coordinate with al the vital forces of the sociaty to achieve thase goals.”
Patriarch Rahi concluded by saying, We bless this group and its founders, and we pray for their success and for the greater good of the citizens.”
After the Mass, Patriarch Rahi received the council's members
where they succinctly discussed the next action plan.
After the meeting, Mr. Bou Najm explained: “We have launched this council project, and by the power of God and the Holy Spirit, it will hopefully begin its
work for the common good of our Christian and Lebanese community.”
Dr. Fouad Abou Nader
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the official platform of the Christian Council for Development and Coordination (CCDC). Established with the endorsement of the Maronite Patriarchate on the 3rd of September
2023, CCDC stands as a beacon of Christian resilience and dedication in Lebanon.
Our fundamental objective at CCDC is to preserve Lebanon's distinct identity and honor the pivotal historical
contributions of Christians in shaping our Country's trajectory. We ardently advocate for Lebanon's neutrality, viewing it as essential for reasserting sovereignty and paving the way towards a prosperous
future.
At the heart of our mission lie four foundational pillars: promoting freedom of conscience and belief, ensuring access to quality education, safeguarding freedom of expression and peaceful
assembly, and fostering individual economic initiative. These pillars are not mere ideals but essential components of a society where every individual can flourish and contribute meaningfully to Lebanon's
progress.
At CCDC, we believe in the power of collaboration and unity while upholding our core values. One of our key objectives is to coordinate with all forces and components of Lebanese society, while
staying true to our principles, we seek to bridge divides and foster constructive dialogue among diverse perspectives, recognizing that inclusive cooperation is essential for addressing the challenges
we face.
Despite the complexities of our political landscape, CCDC remains steadfast in advancing societal development. We spearhead initiatives across economic, educational, and healthcare
sectors, with a primary goal of creating sustainable job opportunities and improving the quality of life for all Lebanese citizens.
Our mission is inclusive and transcends political affiliations,
aiming to empower Christians to thrive autonomously in their homeland with unwavering freedom, security, equality, and dignity.
"Together, we can make a profound difference." As Helen Keller
once said, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
I warmly invite you to join us on this transformative journey of resilience, progress, and empowerment. Let us work hand in
hand to forge a Lebanon where every individual can fulfill their potential and contribute to the collective prosperity of our beloved Country.
With warmest regards,
Dr Fouad Abou Nader President
Bishop Antoine Bou Najm
Dear Friends,
The church as a religious and social organization, driven by moral and social principles as contained in the fundamental teachings and doctrine of Christian faith, is expected
to play an important role towards the social change and the improvement on society’s economic system putting the society in a holistic growth- and development-oriented direction.
Being the supervisor
of the "Council for Christian Development and Coordination", I would like to shed the light on the profound and enduring role the Catholic Church has played in the development of our nation. Our Church
stood strong, weaving its moral, social, and educational fabric into the very essence of our society. It has also an impactful role in community development. It deals with the soul and the spirit, its
mission to help its people develop and live in dignity.
Furthermore, the Catholic Church has been a beacon of hope and compassion in times of adversity and distress. Whether in response to disasters,
socio-economic challenges, or periods of political instability, the Church has consistently mobilized resources and offered support to those in need. Its extensive network of charitable organizations
and social services has provided vital assistance to vulnerable populations, offering education, food, shelter, healthcare, and other essential support systems.
We are putting forth our utmost
efforts across all domains, and filling the gap. However, it's vital to recognize that in the absence of a functioning state, we cannot take on its responsibilities - a state that has unfortunately stripped
its citizens of their most fundamental rights, hoping that one day the state takes the lead.
Here comes the "Christian Council for Development and Coordination" (CCDC) to stand by the Christian
community and coordinates between various associations on development and service matters especially the Christians in the rural areas to limit migration, and internal displacement towards cities, by
providing services and creating employability.
The Christian Council for Development and Coordination (CCDC) is formed of a community of dedicated individuals who not only acknowledge the historical presence, the rich heritage, and the vital role of the Christians in Lebanon but also stand firmly
in support of the nation's foundational principles. We advocate for every Lebanese citizen's right to security, dignity, freedom, and equality under the Rule of Law.
CCDC upholds Lebanon's core values: Freedom of Faith, Education, Speech, and Economy. We prioritize the common good and social justice to empower Lebanese Christians in shaping the nation's future. Central to our mission is advocating for Lebanon's neutrality,
endorsed by the Church, to foster unity and rejuvenate the country. Promoting neutrality aims to establish stability, progress, and pave the way for Lebanon's sustainable development and prosperity.
Our purpose is to safeguard and advance the rich Christian heritage in Lebanon, ensuring its vitality for generations to come. We are committed to fostering an environment of equality, freedom and justice, where every individual can flourish regardless
of their background or beliefs. We honor Lebanon's cultural richness and promote cohesion through diversity and inclusivity.
Our mission is to pioneer innovative and impactful solutions through collaboration and coordination with diverse communities and experts. We address critical political, social, and economic challenges that fuel and drive Christian emigration while working
to anchor them in the land. We go beyond engagement, actively uniting stakeholders to foster synergy and cooperation.