“The fervor and there, the desire to welcome it too”

Leo XIV arrives in Lebanon this Sunday, November 30. What does his coming mean for the Lebanese?

Hugues de Woillemont: The Pope’s decision to extend his trip from Turkey to Lebanon, which was not originally planned, was received as a very positive sign. For half a century, this country has experienced few periods of stability. The ceasefire signed in 2024 between Israel and Hezbollah is fragile, the south of Beirut is being bombarded. The Lebanese expect from the Pope a message of support for the faith of the faithful and its long-term commitment. But they also hope that such a visit could lead to greater security, and a return to a certain economic stability.

Does the Pope have the power to influence the political life of a country to this extent?

It is of course not his responsibility to change the rules of a state. But when a pope meets leaders, he urges them to take care of the most vulnerable, to consolidate the rule of law. In 2021, Francis’ visit to Iraq was seen as a very encouraging sign. The fact that Leo XIV chose to visit Lebanon shows the world the interest that the Holy See shows in this country, and that it is possible to go there. It is also a message sent to the entire Middle East: young Syrians will come there to welcome him, for example.

Before him, several popes visited the land of Cedar. In 1989, John Paul II wrote that Lebanon was a “message” to the world. What about today?

The point is still relevant today! The interreligious system and coexistence between different cultures that Lebanon advocates still holds today. We speak of this country as a “mosaic”, it shows that such plurality is possible. Surrounded by neighboring countries where this is not the case, it is a strong model.

This trip to Türkiye and Lebanon is one of unity, dialogue, and compassion. Leo XV will visit injured places, notably the port of Beirut which experienced a large explosion five years ago. Going there is both an extension of the gestures of Francis who did not hesitate to visit places of fracture and fragility, and it is a demonstration of deep compassion towards these still raw wounds.

How is the Lebanese Church doing?

There are living communities, particularly with youth ministry. The latter are keen to testify before the Pope of their joy in following Christ and their wish to commit to their country.

The Church supports educational and health institutions, which are also put in difficulty by the State which does not keep its funding commitments. Due to the economic and political crisis, many people have fled the country. But others choose to stay: with the Œuvre d’Orient, we support the entrepreneurial projects of young people who want to set up a commercial activity, a workshop. This momentum is touching.

While traveling in Beirut a few days ago, I was struck by a large poster at the airport, announcing the arrival of the Pope: the fervor and there, the desire to welcome him too.