Pope Francis is participating in an interfaith meeting in Martyrs’ Square in Beirut. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, Syriac Catholic Patriarch Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Lebanese Grand Mufti Sheikh Abd Al-Latif Derian, and other religious leaders.
During the meeting, Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, Deputy President of the Supreme Islamic Shia Council, welcomed the Pope and expressed appreciation for his visit, saying: “We welcome you to Lebanon, valuing your stance in this difficult period our country is going through.”
Grand Mufti Sheikh Abd Al-Latif Derian emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and human rights, saying: “In Lebanon, we affirm our national constants, respect religious freedoms and human rights, and do not interfere in others’ affairs.”
Orthodox Patriarch John X Yazigi welcomed the Pope, saying: “Welcome to the land where Christ’s cross was planted, welcome to Lebanon, a unique country that breathes Christianity and Islam.”
Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II said: “Your visit comes at a sensitive time in the region’s history, amid great transformations.”
Syriac Catholic Patriarch Ignatius Youssef III Younan said: “The visit is about building peace and stability in the region, especially in Lebanon, which is small in size but great in its message and role.”
The Pope’s visit is seen as a significant moment for interfaith dialogue and a call for peace and unity in the region.
Pope Leo XIV continued visit to Lebanon on Monday and will meet leaders on second day, a day after official and popular reception from Beirut International Airport to the Presidential Palace in Baabda.
Pope Leo XIV addressed the Lebanese people with a message of hope and resilience, praising their perseverance amid ongoing challenges. Speaking from Baabda Palace, the Pontiff said, “It is a great joy for us to visit this land, where peace is more than a word—it is a wish, a call, a gift, and an ever-open workshop.”
Source: Al-Manar English Website
