Beirut blast led some to leave Lebanon, now Maronite Catholics say pope's visit brings hope

NBC NewsTuesday, December 2, 2025 at 2:45:00 PM
Beirut blast led some to leave Lebanon, now Maronite Catholics say pope's visit brings hope
  • The recent visit of Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon has brought renewed hope to the Maronite Catholic community, particularly following the devastating Beirut port explosion in 2020 and the subsequent economic collapse that led many to leave the country. The Pope's prayers at the blast site and a Mass attended by approximately 100,000 people highlighted his commitment to the Lebanese people.
  • This visit is significant as it marks Pope Leo's inaugural foreign trip, emphasizing his role in promoting peace and unity among Lebanon's diverse religious communities, which have been strained by ongoing sectarian tensions and external conflicts.
  • The Pope's call for coexistence and justice resonates amid a backdrop of political instability and violence in the region, including recent Israeli airstrikes. His visit serves as a beacon of hope for many Lebanese, particularly Christians, while also highlighting the frustrations of those in areas feeling neglected in the recovery process.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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