Pope Leo XIV Launches First Foreign Trip With Visits to Turkiye and Lebanon
Pope Leo XIV has embarked on the first foreign trip of his papacy, six months after his election. The six-day journey will begin in Turkiye, marking a major Christian anniversary, before continuing to Lebanon—just days after Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut. Although the itinerary was initially designed for the late Pope Francis, the overarching theme of “building bridges” has been embraced by Pope Leo since the moment he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in May.
A Historic Visit to Turkiye
One of the most significant moments of the trip will take place in the Turkish town of Iznik, the site of ancient Nicaea. There, Pope Leo will join leaders from various Christian traditions to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea. Held in 325 AD, the council brought together more than 200 bishops who affirmed the belief that Jesus is the Son of God, forming the foundation of what became the Nicene Creed.
Although Eastern and Western branches of Christianity later experienced a dramatic split, this gathering is expected to deliver messages of unity and healing.
In Istanbul, Pope Leo will follow the footsteps of his predecessors—Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI—by visiting the Blue Mosque. He is also scheduled to meet with Muslim and other religious leaders in a gesture of interfaith dialogue before heading to Lebanon.
Lebanon Visit Goes Ahead Despite Tensions
The Vatican has confirmed that plans for Pope Leo’s visit to Lebanon remain unchanged despite Israeli airstrikes on Beirut earlier this week. During his stay, he will meet with Christian, Muslim, and other community leaders and is expected to offer support to Lebanon’s large Christian population, which represents roughly one-third of the country.
On the final day of the trip, Pope Leo will celebrate Mass at Beirut’s waterfront, at the site of the devastating 2020 port explosion. He will pray for the more than 200 people killed and the 7,000 injured in the blast.
A New Papacy Marked by Measured Diplomacy
In his first months as pope, Leo XIV has cultivated an image of measured, careful leadership. While he has spoken strongly on issues such as the dignity of migrants, he has avoided the overt political tone sometimes associated with Pope Francis. His diplomatic approach has allowed both progressives and traditionalists within the Church to see elements of their own perspectives reflected in his leadership.
This balancing act was one of the reasons why cardinals of different viewpoints united around him during the conclave. While Francis was considered visionary yet less concerned with consensus, Pope Leo has adopted a gentler style—continuing some progressive initiatives while giving more attention to traditionalist concerns.
During meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Lebanese civic leaders, Pope Leo may address regional conflicts and peace efforts. As is customary, he is expected to hold a press conference on the return flight to Rome, offering reflections on the trip.
A Pope Speaking With a Chicago Accent
Another notable aspect of this visit is language. Although Pope Leo speaks several languages fluently and has largely delivered public speeches in Italian until now, the Vatican confirmed he will speak primarily in English throughout the Turkey leg, with some French during his time in Lebanon. Born in Chicago, the Pope is expected to be heard speaking in his distinct American accent.
