Pope Leo XIV, the 70-year-old American pontiff, will embark on his inaugural papal journey from November 27 to December 2.
The Vatican announced the six-day visit to Turkey and Lebanon on Tuesday, outlining a focus on historical and peace-building themes.
Turkey Visit Highlights Nicaea
From November 27 to 30, the Pope will visit Turkey, including a pilgrimage to Iznik. This marks the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
Held in what is now Iznik, 100 km southeast of Istanbul, the council united Christian bishops under Emperor Constantine.
It established the Nicene Creed, affirming one God in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—a core belief for most Christians.
Lebanon Focus on Peace
From November 30 to December 2, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Lebanon. The visit aims to promote peace in the multi-faith nation, which seeks to disarm non-state groups like Hezbollah.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun, a Maronite Christian, invited the Pope in June. Tensions persist, with Israel maintaining troops in southern Lebanon and conducting strikes despite a November 2024 ceasefire.
Historical Context
The Nicaea visit was initially planned for May by Pope Francis, who passed away in April at 88.
The last papal trips to these nations were by Benedict XVI to Lebanon in 2012 and Francis to Turkey in 2014, where he met President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Significance of the Journey
Pope Leo XIV’s trip underscores the Catholic Church’s commitment to historical reflection and regional stability.
His pilgrimage to Iznik celebrates a pivotal Christian milestone, while his Lebanon visit addresses ongoing peace challenges in a diverse nation.
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