Pope Leo XIV has embarked on his first foreign trip, visiting Turkey and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2, 2023. This journey fulfills the late Pope Francis’ vision to commemorate a significant Orthodox anniversary while delivering a message of peace amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
In Turkey, the Pope’s itinerary includes a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. This meeting is anticipated to address key issues surrounding regional stability and interfaith dialogue. Following this, Leo XIV will spend three days in Istanbul, where he will hold ecumenical and interfaith discussions aimed at fostering unity among different Christian communities.
The Pope’s visit comes at a time when the need for dialogue and reconciliation is pressing, particularly given the ongoing war in Ukraine and heightened tensions in the Middle East. The trip serves not only as a continuation of Francis’ legacy but also as a critical step toward promoting peace in a volatile region.
After concluding his engagements in Turkey, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Lebanon, where he will further his mission of peace. The Lebanese leg of the trip is expected to highlight the challenges faced by the Christian community in the region, while also encouraging unity among different faiths.
This visit underscores the Catholic Church’s commitment to addressing global issues through dialogue and cooperation. As the Pope engages with leaders and faith communities, his messages of peace and unity will resonate in a world yearning for stability and understanding.
