Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rai announced that Pope Leo XIV will visit Lebanon at the end of November, describing the upcoming trip as a “visit of peace and hope” for a country weary from decades of unrest.
Speaking to Agence France-Presse in Bkerke, Rai stated that “the Pope has taken peace upon himself; his program is peace. He comes at a time when the war in Gaza has stopped, and Lebanon is experiencing a ceasefire, even if some violations still occur. He comes to us in a time of peace.”
The Vatican confirmed last week that the Pope’s first international trip since his election will begin in Iznik, northwestern Turkey, from November 27 to 30, before continuing on to Lebanon until December 2.
Patriarch Rai underscored the significance of the visit, saying that it comes “at the best and most beautiful time,” as Lebanon experiences a rare moment of calm. He added, “Lebanon has had enough war since 1975, enough of war, killing and destruction, including the latest conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.”
From his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome, Pope Leo XIV told reporters, “In Lebanon, I will have the opportunity to proclaim a new message of peace in a country that has suffered greatly. After all it has endured, we will try to bring this message of peace and hope.”
Rai expressed hope that the papal visit will inspire reconciliation among the Lebanese and renew the country’s mission as a symbol of coexistence and faith in the Middle East.
Comments