It has already become common that on Tuesday afternoons, Pope Leo XIV leaves the Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo and answers questions from the journalists waiting for him outside.
On the eve of beginning his first apostolic journey, Pope Leo XIV recalled the purpose of making this historic trip to Turkey and Lebanon, the latter being a country affected by war and immersed in a deep economic crisis.
POPE LEO
I am very happy to be able to visit Lebanon. The message will be a word of peace, a word of hope, especially in this Jubilee year of hope, and I will be very glad to greet all the people.
It is not the first time the Pope has met with the Ecumenical Patriarch of the Orthodox Church, Bartholomew I, and this is something that will also take place over these days.
POPE LEO
Let us say that this trip comes precisely to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the creed of Nicaea, of the Council of Nicaea, the figure of Jesus Christ. A few days ago we published a document speaking about this importance of unity in faith, which can also be a source of peace for the whole world.
We want to be witnesses. Bartholomew and I have already met several times, and I think it will be an exceptional opportunity to promote unity among all Christians.
In recent days, news broke that Israel eliminated Hezbollah’s number two in an airstrike on Beirut that left four other people dead and more than 20 injured… In response to this news, the Pope made an appeal for peace and is willing to bring this message of unity on this first journey destined for history.
POPE LEO
I invite everyone to seek peace, to seek justice, because sometimes violence occurs because of injustices. And I believe that we must work together to seek greater unity, respect for everyone and for all religions. Thank you.
During Wednesday’s General Audience, the Pope took the opportunity to ask the pilgrims for prayers—prayers that will accompany him on this first trip that will mark the history of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate.
POPE LEO
Tomorrow I will travel to Turkey and then to Lebanon to visit the dear peoples of those countries rich in history and spirituality. It will also be an occasion to remember the 1700th anniversary of the first ecumenical Council held in Nicaea and to meet with the Catholic community, Christian brothers and sisters, and those of other religions. I ask you to accompany me with your prayers.
This was Pope Leo's last public appearance before beginning his first international trip—a unique opportunity to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and to bring a message of peace and unity to Turkey and Lebanon.
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