Lebanon: On the final day of his first Apostolic Journey to Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV paid a heartfelt visit to the La Croix Hospital in Jal Ed Dib, one of the Middle East’s largest hospitals for individuals with mental disabilities. The visit highlighted the Pope’s enduring message of compassion and the Church’s commitment to the most vulnerable in society.
Founded in 1919 by Blessed Fr. Jacques Haddad, La Croix began as a general hospital, was converted into a psychiatric facility in 1937, and transformed into a hospital for people with mental disabilities in 1951. Over the decades, the institution has become a beacon of hope and care for countless patients.
In his address, Pope Leo expressed deep joy at visiting the hospital and emphasized his spiritual connection to the community there. “I wanted to come because Jesus dwells in this place: in you who are ill, and in you who care for the ailing the sisters, the doctors, all the healthcare workers and staff,” he said, assuring everyone of his prayers.
Reflecting on the hospital’s history, the Holy Father praised Fr. Jacques Haddad as “a tireless apostle of charity,” whose holiness shone through his love for the poorest and most suffering. Fr. Jacques also founded the Franciscan Sisters of the Cross, who continue to serve the hospital with dedication. Pope Leo lauded the sisters and staff for embodying “the merciful love of Christ,” reminding them that their care mirrors the compassion of the Good Samaritan.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by healthcare workers, the Pope encouraged them to maintain their joy and motivation despite fatigue or difficult circumstances. “Keep before your eyes the good you are able to accomplish. In God’s eyes, this is a great work,” he said, underscoring the spiritual significance of their mission.
Pope Leo emphasized that the hospital’s work is a reminder to society not only Lebanon but the global community of the importance of caring for the most vulnerable. “We cannot build a society that advances while ignoring poverty and vulnerability,” he warned, urging Christians to live the Gospel by caring for those in need.
Closing his visit, the Pope offered words of reassurance to patients and staff alike: “You are close to the heart of God. He holds you in the palm of His hand, accompanies you with love, and offers His tenderness through the hands and smiles of those who care for you.” He urged all present to remember that they are loved and cherished as children of God.
The visit to La Croix Hospital stands as a poignant conclusion to Pope Leo XIV’s first journey to Lebanon, reinforcing the Church’s mission to serve the fragile, uphold human dignity, and cultivate compassion in every corner of society.