Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai said the patriarchate has drawn up a plan to unite Christian factions of Lebanon based on his policy of “love and partnership,” which he said would be the slogan of his tenure as the head of the church.

The election of Rai, who is known for his academic credentials and experience, comes at critical time in Lebanese politics and particularly for the divided Christian community.

Rai, who was elected patriarch last week, is widely believed to enjoy the backing of the Vatican in a bid to modernize and institutionalize the Maronite Church.

“There is a plan to unite Christians, a plan whose foundations were laid during the electoral rounds of the synod of Maronite bishops. The plan addresses the church and people’s needs as well as internal unity and the needs of Christians in Lebanon, the Middle East and the diaspora,” Rai said in a radio interview.

The new patriarch added that state officials should assume the responsibility of managing everyday politics, while stressing they would be held accountable for “principles rather than details.”

“Contacts with politicians will take place away from the media, and follow-up on issues will happen through certain figures,” Rai said, The Daily Star reported.