Beirut: Pope Leo XIV, speaking candidly to journalists aboard the papal flight returning from Lebanon, revealed that he once contemplated retirement but ultimately chose to “surrender to God” and let divine providence guide his path. During a wide-ranging inflight press conference, the Pope addressed global conflicts, Vatican diplomacy, his reaction to being elected, and his vision for dialogue among religions and nations.
The Pope began the session by thanking the 81 journalists who travelled with him through Türkiye and Lebanon, praising their efforts in conveying the message of peace at the heart of his Apostolic Visit. Switching between English, Italian, and Spanish, he offered insights into the Church’s quiet diplomatic work and the global challenges confronting peace.
Responding to questions about the Holy See’s role in mediating regional tensions, the Pope stressed that Vatican diplomacy often unfolds “behind the scenes.” He confirmed initiating discreet conversations with leaders from countries embroiled in Middle Eastern disputes, including Israel, noting that sustainable peace in Lebanon and the region remains possible.
Asked about a message reportedly sent by Hezbollah ahead of his visit, the Pope acknowledged having seen it but refrained from publicly commenting, reiterating the Church’s consistent appeal for all armed groups to lay down weapons and embrace dialogue.
On the ongoing war in Ukraine and escalating tensions between NATO and Russia, Pope Leo XIV underscored the complexities of hybrid warfare, including cyber threats and energy insecurity. While the Holy See is not a direct participant in any geopolitical alliance, he emphasized the Vatican’s moral voice in urging an end to hostilities.
He also underlined Europe’s indispensable role in any long-term peace process, suggesting that Italy could emerge as a significant mediator given its history and diplomatic tradition. The Pope expressed readiness for the Holy See to support such initiatives aimed at achieving a “truly just peace.”
Pressed about his personal journey to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV invoked his long-held spirituality of entrusting everything to God. He revealed that before his election, he had quietly contemplated retiring from active ministry. But when the Conclave’s direction became apparent, he recognized the moment as a divine calling.
“I took a deep breath and said, ‘Here we go, Lord you’re in charge,’” he told journalists, citing Brother Lawrence’s classic spiritual text The Practice of the Presence of God as an influence.
He also noted with amusement that journalists often misinterpret his facial expressions: “Sometimes I get great ideas from how you read my face but you’re not always correct.”
Asked about future travels, the Pope said that while no schedule is confirmed, he hopes his next Apostolic Journey will be to Africa especially Algeria, a country linked to St. Augustine. He views such a visit as an opportunity to deepen Christian–Muslim dialogue and strengthen the Church’s historical bonds in North Africa.
He added that Latin America, including Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru, also remains a strong possibility for future travel, though plans are still under discernment.
On the crisis in Venezuela, the Pope affirmed that the Vatican is working alongside the Bishops’ Conference and the Nunciature to seek non-violent pathways toward stability. While acknowledging mounting international pressure, he appealed for dialogue over military action, stressing that “the people suffer first” in any conflict.
Turning to the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in parts of Europe, Pope Leo XIV countered narratives portraying Islam as a threat to Christian identity. He highlighted Lebanon as a living example of coexistence, where Christian and Muslim communities “work together, live together, and help one another.”
He urged Europeans and North Americans to be “less fearful” and more committed to dialogue, saying the Church’s mission includes demonstrating that mutual respect between religions is not only possible but essential.
The Pope also addressed concerns about the German Church’s Synodal Way, acknowledging both its unique cultural context and the disagreements within Germany itself. He called for deeper internal dialogue to ensure that no group majority or minority is silenced.
He confirmed ongoing meetings between German bishops and Vatican officials to harmonize the synodal process with the broader direction of the universal Church.
Concluding the press conference, the Pope reflected on the Middle East’s long history of suffering and its powerful witness to the world. He said the Church in the region marked by wounds, resilience, and the daily struggle for peace has a unique gift to offer global Christianity: a reminder that unity, compassion, and human connection remain essential in a fractured world.
His episcopal motto, “In the One who is One, we are one,” he said, extends beyond Christians to all humanity. Authentic unity, he stressed, can help nations move beyond distrust and violence toward “a future where peace becomes not a dream, but a lived reality.”