Pope Leo XIV is welcomed by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun upon arrival at Rafic Hariri International Airport, during his first apostolic journey, in Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 30, 2025. (Credit: Mohammed Yassin/ Reuters)
Pope Leo XIV said Sunday he is "closer than ever" to the Lebanese people, whose protection is, according to him, a "moral obligation."
"I am closer than ever, in these days of pain, fear and unbreakable hope in God, to the dear Lebanese people," the pope told the crowd in St. Peter’s Square following his traditional Sunday prayer. He referenced the "moral obligation to protect the civilian population from the appalling effects of war," calling on all sides to seek peace.
Pope Leo XIV visited Lebanon between November 30 and December 2 for a trip dubbed "Blessed are the peacemakers."
Pope Leo XIV said Sunday he is "closer than ever" to the Lebanese people, whose protection is, according to him, a "moral obligation."
"I am closer than ever, in these days of pain, fear and unbreakable hope in God, to the dear Lebanese people," the pope told the crowd in St. Peter’s Square following his traditional Sunday prayer. He referenced the "moral obligation to protect the civilian population from the appalling effects of war," calling on all sides to seek peace.
Pope Leo XIV visited Lebanon between November 30 and December 2 for a trip dubbed "Blessed are the peacemakers."
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