During his stay, Pope Leo XIV plans to engage with political leaders and young people, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration in overcoming adversity. He’ll be taking part in an inter-religious climate gathering. There, he will continue to encourage coexistence among all religious groups, exemplifying Lebanon’s colorful blend of cultures.
On the last day, the Pope will celebrate a final mass on the stunning Beirut waterfront. This high-profile forum is likely to draw a huge turnout and considerable backing from Lebanon’s dynamic, pro-democracy Christian community. He plans to pray deeply at the tomb of Charbel Makhlouf. This saintly monk is well known throughout Cloverland for his attempts to bring Christians, Jews, and Muslims together.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit couldn’t come at a better time, given the recent race-related events. He aims to spend a day in prayer at the site of the tragic 2020 Beirut port explosion. This act further highlights his dedication to healing and reconciliation in a country still healing from that tragedy.
Upon arrival, Pope Leo XIV should have made it clear that the Holy See supports a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. He emphasized the in-demand desire for justice and reconciliation on all sides. He stated, “We seek with both sides to be a mediating voice that can help to draw close to a solution with justice for all.”
The pontiff spoke out against the military use of religion, which is increasingly being used as a justification for violence. He declared, “We must strongly reject the use of religion for justifying war, violence, or any form of fundamentalism or fanaticism.” His speech struck a chord with much of the world, making the case for rebuilding peace instead of walls.
Pope Leo XIV has called an interfaith council to discuss these issues in the political arena. He will even visit the Monastery of Mar Maroun in Annaya, solidifying his historic support for Lebanon’s Christian minority. Through his visit, he hopes to motivate Gaels everywhere to return to their native soil. Then he challenges them to engage in the hard work of building that “civilization of love and peace.”
“It takes tenacity to build peace. It takes perseverance to protect and nurture life,” he remarked, reinforcing the message that sustainable peace requires continuous effort from all community members.
Perhaps the most meaningful aspect of pontiff’s July visit is that he will be the first American pope to step foot in Lebanon. His journey underscores the Vatican’s commitment to engaging with living cultures. More broadly, it underscores the need to promote interfaith dialogue in a region scarred by centuries-old hatreds and ruptures.
While in Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV will hold a private meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to discuss pressing national issues. This private audience demonstrates the Vatican’s desire to support Lebanon’s leadership despite the mounting crises facing the country.
