Pope Leo is set to embark on his inaugural international journey outside Italy as the head of the Catholic Church. He will be visiting Turkey and Lebanon, where his main focus is expected to be advocating for peace in the region and promoting unity among Christian denominations that have been historically divided.
Leo, who hails from Chicago, was elected as pope on May 8 by the cardinals worldwide following the passing of his predecessor, Pope Francis. This trip, scheduled from Nov. 27 to Dec. 2, will mark Leo’s first official speeches to foreign governments and visits to significant cultural landmarks in both countries.
During his visit to Turkey, Leo will engage in various joint activities with Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians worldwide. The trip to Lebanon, which boasts the highest Christian population in the Middle East, is anticipated to highlight the theme of peace.
The recent airstrike by Israel in Beirut, killing a top Hezbollah military official despite a prior truce, underscores the ongoing tensions in the region. Lebanon, grappling with economic challenges and hosting numerous refugees, hopes that the papal visit will draw global attention to its situation.
Leo’s journey will also include commemorating the 1,700th anniversary of a significant church council in Nicaea, now Iznik, where a creed still recited by billions of Christians today was formulated. This event symbolizes unity between Orthodox and Catholic Christians, who historically split in the East-West Schism of 1054.
Additionally, Leo will make a historic visit to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, his first as pope to a Muslim place of worship, and conduct a Catholic Mass at the Volkswagen Arena. The visit to Lebanon will culminate in a prayer at the site of the 2020 Beirut port explosion, an inter-religious meeting, and an outdoor mass at the Beirut waterfront.
The papal visit is seen as a gesture of solidarity by Rev. Michel Abboud, emphasizing support for the Lebanese people amidst their challenges. Leo’s visit aims to bring hope and awareness to the region, reaffirming the importance of unity and peace in times of turmoil.