Pope Leo XIV to make historic pilgrimage to Lebanon

On November 30, Pope Leo XIV will touch down in Lebanon, marking his first international trip since his election on May 8. This three-day visit, lasting until December 2, is the fourth papal journey to Lebanon and comes at a time of regional uncertainty, carrying a profound message of peace, unity, and hope.

The Pope will be welcomed at Beirut Airport by a political and religious delegation led by President Michel Aoun. During his stay at the Apostolic Nunciature, he will take part in seven landmark events:

- Official meeting at the Presidential Palace, bringing together Lebanon’s political and spiritual leaders.

- Public Mass on Beirut’s waterfront, a celebration open to the faithful in the heart of the capital.

- Youth gathering at Bkerké, inspiring the next generation of Lebanese Christians.

- Clergy meeting at the Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, honoring Lebanon’s rich spiritual heritage.

- Christian-Muslim dialogue at Martyrs’ Square, fostering interfaith understanding in a historic space of memory and resilience.

- Visit to Saint Maroun Monastery in Annaya, home of Saint Charbel’s shrine. Pope Leo XIV will become the first pontiff to step into this sacred sanctuary, a symbol of devotion that unites Lebanese of all faiths.

- Visit to the Monastery of the Cross in Beknaia, connecting with nuns, staff, and the local community.

Preparations have been intense, with committees coordinating logistics, security, and ceremonial arrangements. Roads to Annaya will be fully illuminated, guiding the Pope to one of Lebanon’s most venerated sites. First Lady Neemat Aoun has overseen the organization closely, working alongside the Council of Catholic Patriarchs and Bishops and the Papal Nunciature.

This visit underscores Lebanon’s unique place in the Christian world. Known as the heartland of Christianity in the Middle East, the country has long been a land of saints and devotion, where faith is woven into daily life and history. Pope Leo XIV’s presence is a powerful reminder of Lebanon’s spiritual significance, its resilience in times of turmoil, and its enduring role as a beacon of hope, peace, and unity for Christians across the region.