Pope Leo XIV has begun his Apostolic Journey to Lebanon by meeting civil authorities, civil society representatives, and diplomats in Beirut, urging the nation to embrace peace as a daily commitment.
Speaking at the Presidential Palace, the Holy Father highlighted the central theme of his visit, “Blessed are the peacemakers,” stressing that peace in Lebanon is not an abstract goal but a necessity rooted in the country’s complex social fabric.
“Peace is a desire and a vocation that must be built every day,” Pope Leo said, praising the resilience of the Lebanese people who “do not give up” even in times of hardship. He encouraged leaders to remain connected to their people, particularly young generations, and to speak “the language of hope” that has enabled Lebanon to “always start again.”
The Pope also addressed reconciliation, urging patience and honesty in confronting personal and collective wounds. “Truth and reconciliation only ever grow together,” he said, warning against remaining “imprisoned by our own pain and our own way of thinking.”
Highlighting the challenge of youth emigration, Pope Leo noted that while the Lebanese diaspora brings benefits, “the Church does not want anyone to be forced to leave their country.” He called for conditions that allow young people to build their future at home and reminded leaders to balance local identity with global openness, quoting Fratelli tutti.
Recognising the role of women, the Pope said they possess a “special capacity for peace-making” and contribute to societal renewal. He added that young people who stay or return play a decisive role in restoring Lebanon as a vibrant, thriving nation.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV stressed that peace requires shared responsibility and dialogue, even amid disagreement, as the path to true reconciliation.
Credit: Vatican News
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