Pope Leo XIV embarked on his inaugural overseas trip, visiting Turkey and Lebanon to promote peace and Christian unity in a region fraught with conflict and division.
In Turkey, he celebrated the 1,700-year anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, emphasizing the need for unity between Eastern and Western churches while engaging in significant interfaith dialogue, notably at the Blue Mosque.
The pontiff delivered a hopeful message to the beleaguered Lebanese population, urging political leaders to embrace reconciliation and strive for peace, especially amid rising tensions with Hezbollah and Israel.
His visit resonated deeply within the Christian community in Lebanon, as he sought to bolster their spirits and remind them of their crucial role in a region marked by sectarian strife.
Throughout his travels, Leo condemned religious violence and called for international support to address the challenges faced by minority communities, such as refugees and displaced individuals.
The trip underscored the Catholic Church's commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation among different faiths, presenting the Pope as a symbol of unity and hope in a time of great turmoil.
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