Pope Leo XIV Concludes First Middle East Visit in Lebanon Amidst National Crises
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lebanon on Sunday evening, marking his first visit to the Middle East since his selection as the leader of the world's Catholics in May. The visit occurs as Lebanon faces an economic crisis and regional conflicts. His arrival in Lebanon followed a stop in Turkey, where he commemorated the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea.
Activities and Engagements
On Monday morning, Pope Leo XIV's convoy traveled through roads near Beirut to the mountain-top tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf. Attendees lined roads during rainy conditions. He presented a handmade votive lamp and spoke of Saint Charbel's attributes, stating they are "radical" qualities in contemporary society, and entrusted "Lebanon and its people to Saint Charbel."
Later on Monday, Pope Leo XIV visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, a significant pilgrimage site. He discussed the future of the Church in Lebanon and listened to testimonies from a priest, a nun, and a domestic worker regarding experiences during recent conflicts.
- A priest, Yohanna Fuad Fahad, described efforts to assist Syrian refugees during Syria's 14-year civil war and subsequent arrivals after the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December, noting the impact of Lebanon's economic crisis on aid efforts.
- Sister Dima recounted her decision to remain in Balbaak during the Israel-Hezbollah conflict to support Christian and Muslim families.
- Lauren, a church volunteer and domestic worker, detailed her experience escaping a locked house with other foreign workers and a newborn during fighting to seek church assistance.
Pope Leo XIV referenced Pope Francis's emphasis on Christian engagement with tragedy. He also highlighted the necessity of providing opportunities for young people, stating it is crucial to "offer them concrete and viable prospects for rebirth and future growth."
Context of Lebanon
Lebanon holds historical significance in early Christianity, with parts of the Galilee region extending into its southern areas. The Maroun monastery dates to a century after the crucifixion of Jesus.
Christians are estimated to constitute approximately 30% of Lebanon's population. This figure is based on the last census conducted under French rule in 1932, which recorded Christians as over half of the population. The country is now majority Muslim, yet Christians maintain more political influence than in other regional nations. The Lebanese presidency is conventionally reserved for a Maronite Catholic.
Many Lebanese citizens have emigrated since the financial collapse of 2019 and the Beirut port explosion in 2020. Christian Lebanese migrants have been notably welcomed by Western countries. Roads in the Daroun-Harissa municipality, previously stalled due to the economic crisis and the coronavirus lockdown, were repaved in preparation for the papal visit.
Security and Final Activities
On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to hold a prayer Mass at Beirut's waterfront near the explosion site before concluding his visit. The Vatican determined that a visit to southern Lebanon was not advisable due to ongoing security concerns, as Israel has conducted attacks in the region despite a year-old ceasefire.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia militia and political party, has maintained the ceasefire but faces pressure from the Lebanese government to disarm. Christian villages along the border with Israel have experienced infrastructure damage. In Canaa, a village historically associated with Jesus's first miracle, Christians now represent about 10% of the population, with many relocating to Beirut for employment.