On Friday, the Patriarchal seat in Bikirki hosted a celebration on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the message of Pope, Blessed John Paul II, on the dignity of women and their message.  The ceremony was headed by Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros Rahi, in the presence of ranking religious figures and students from Catholic schools.  A dialogue was held between the Patriarch and the students, and talks focused on the duties of the state and the church regarding violence against women.  Rahi affirmed in this regard that "the church fully supports equality between men and women."  "The church emphasizes in its teachings the need to preserve the dignity of women and it will not remain silent over abuse or inequality," he assured.  [Link]