Pope Leo XIV—affectionately called “Baba Liyū” in Arabic—has arrived in Beirut for the second leg of his first Apostolic Journey, marking the first papal visit to Lebanon in 13 years. The warm reception reflects the deep significance of his presence in a country navigating one of the most challenging periods in its modern history.
Strategically located between Syria and Israel, Lebanon’s geopolitical environment underscores the importance of the Pope’s visit. While his stop in Türkiye centered on ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, the theme in Beirut is clear: peace, captured in the visit’s motto, “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
Lebanon is currently facing severe economic decline, marked by soaring inflation, a collapsing currency, widespread power outages, and critical shortages of basic supplies. With nearly two million refugees—Syrian and Palestinian—living within its borders, tensions and instability continue to rise. In many areas, Church-run institutions remain essential lifelines for the population.
Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rai welcomed the Pope’s arrival, describing it as a call to national renewal. “The Holy Father brings spiritual and moral gifts,” he said. “This is an appeal to every Lebanese person—to turn the page, choose peace, and understand the value of this visit during such a critical moment.”
Following his arrival ceremony at the Beirut-Hariri International Airport, Pope Leo XIV will meet Lebanon’s political leadership, beginning with President Joseph Aoun—constitutionally required to be a Maronite Christian—followed by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. These encounters symbolize Lebanon’s unique power-sharing structure among its major religious groups: Maronite, Shiite, and Sunni.
The Pope’s first major public address in Lebanon will take place during a meeting with state authorities, civil society representatives, and the diplomatic corps on Sunday.
Credit: Vatican News
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