Three gunmen were killed overnight when the Lebanese army thwarted an attempt by militants to infiltrate an area on the outskirts …

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Vatican City, Dec 23, 2014 / 10:20 am (CNA/EWTN News).- In a Christmas message to Christians of the Middle East, Pope Francis grieved the violence that has ravaged and displaced many of the region's faithful. But the birth of Jesus, he insisted, gives us the ultimate consolation – God has come in the flesh to save us.
“I write to you just before Christmas, knowing that for many of you the music of your Christmas hymns will also be accompanied by tears and sighs,” Pope Francis said in his Dec. 23 message. “Nonetheless, the birth of the Son of God in our human flesh is an indescribable mystery of consolation: 'For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all people.'” In his remarks, the Pope stressed the need for unity in peace efforts between Eastern Catholic Churches and Orthodox Churches, as well as continued dialogue with Jews and Muslims in the region.

“The more difficult the situation, the more inter-religious dialogue becomes necessary. There is no other way,” the Pope said. “Dialogue, grounded in an attitude of openness, in truth and love, is also the best antidote to the temptation to religious fundamentalism, which is a threat for followers of every religion.”

  BEIRUT: Gunmen robbed a pharmacy in eastern Lebanon Thursday, making off with about $1,300 after firing their weapons to intimidate the …