Weir Doesn’t Mind Being Labeled a ‘Former Hostage’
The Rev. Benjamin Weir says he doesn’t mind being called a former hostage because the label helps keep hope alive for others kidnaped in Lebanon.
Wearing a lapel pin with a yellow ribbon emblazoned with the words, “Remember the Hostages,” Weir spoke on behalf of the Presbyterian Church and said the arms-for-hostages deal that apparently led to his freedom disturbs him greatly.
“My church and I have been very much opposed to arms shipments to the Middle East,” he said Wednesday. “It’s very distressing. I know the cost of the arms in terms of human life has been great.”
His 34 years of anonymous evangelical and humanitarian work in Lebanon ended May 8, 1984, when he was abducted by Shia Muslims in Beirut. He was released Sept. 14, 1985.
Twenty-five foreigners, including eight Americans and hostage negotiator Terry Waite, are still missing and presumed kidnaped in Lebanon.
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