Beirut: Pope Leo XIV opened his Apostolic Journey to Lebanon with a powerful appeal for peace, unity, and renewed hope, addressing Lebanon’s civil authorities, representatives of civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps at the Presidential Palace in Beirut.
Delivering his first speech on Lebanese soil, the Pope anchored his message in the theme of his visit, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” He reminded the nation’s leadership that peace in Lebanon is not an abstract ideal but a daily obligation, shaped by the country’s fragile social fabric, economic crisis, and longstanding political complexities.
The Holy Father praised the resilience of the Lebanese people, noting their remarkable ability to endure hardship and rise again.
“Lebanese citizens do not surrender,” he said, describing this perseverance as the cornerstone of the nation’s capacity to rebuild. He urged policymakers to stay close to their people especially the youth who, he said, must be encouraged to speak “the language of hope” that has repeatedly sustained Lebanon through crises.
Pope Leo XIV stressed that lasting peace requires courage in facing painful memories.
“There are wounds personal and collective that may take generations to heal,” he acknowledged, calling for a patient and honest pursuit of reconciliation.
He cautioned against being trapped by past suffering or rigid mindsets, insisting that truth and reconciliation must grow together. Institutions, he added, must act beyond narrow interests and focus on the common good, which he described as greater than “the sum of many interests.”
Addressing one of Lebanon’s most pressing concerns, the Pope spoke of the ongoing exodus of young people seeking stability abroad.
He recognized the global contributions of the Lebanese diaspora but underlined:
“The Church does not want anyone to be forced to leave their country.”
He urged Lebanon to create conditions that would enable young people to build their future at home and warned against both sectionalism and isolationist nationalism. Citing Fratelli tutti, the Pope highlighted the importance of balancing local identity with openness to the world two pillars essential to any thriving society.
The Pope paid special tribute to Lebanese women, describing them as natural builders of peace thanks to their ability to nurture relationships and strengthen communities. Their presence, he said, is indispensable for authentic national renewal.
Addressing young people those who stay and those who return he affirmed that their dedication is crucial for restoring Lebanon as a “land full of life.”
In closing, Pope Leo XIV delivered a clear message: peace demands shared responsibility. Leaders and institutions must invest in genuine dialogue, even when disagreements persist. “Dialogue,” he said, “is the path that leads to reconciliation.”
As Lebanon grapples with uncertainty, the Pope’s address served as both a warning and a promise: peace is possible, but only through courage, cooperation, and the unwavering commitment of those entrusted with the nation’s future.