Beirut welcomes Pope Leo… while Jordan shares joy and hope

I write from Beirut awaiting the arrival of Pope Leon XIV in the blessed Land of Cedars, Lebanon. As Jordanians, we undoubtedly share the joy of our Lebanese brethren by welcoming His Holiness, the new Pope, arriving for the first time in an Arab country in the East that still years for peace. Lebanon, like our beloved Jordan, has received thousands of forcibly displaced people from their countries, especially our brethren from Syria and Iraq. In this regard, I recall the late Pope Francis, may his soul rest in peace, who used to praise--before diplomats from around the world and at every forum--the two sisterly countries, namely Jordan and Lebanon for welcoming waves of refugees despite their economic burdens and following the fact that the "great" powers had closed their doors in the face of the forcibly displaced.

Jordan participates in welcoming His Holiness Pope Leo in Lebanon, both ecclesiastically through His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, whose spiritual authority extends to Latin churches and institutions in Jordan, particularly schools and other intellectual, cultural, and humanitarian centers. A delegation from the Catholic Center for Studies and Media in Jordan is also participating in the press coverage, alongside more than 1,300 journalists who have registered to cover the various stages of the visit, whose program has been meticulously prepared. There are also pastoral delegations organized by the Maronite Church of Saint Charbel in Jordan, as well as a delegation representing Christian youth. Officially, Jordanian Ambassador in Lebanon Walid Al-Hadid will participate in welcoming the Pope at the Presidential Palace on Sunday as he is known for his calm and wise diplomacy, as well as for being distinguished for his cultural presence, which leaves a lasting impact on the activities he participates in.

The papal visit takes place at a very opportune time to encourage the political authorities, particularly the Lebanese presidency and the government, to move forward in stages to attain political recovery and to breathe life into the Lebanese economy, which has collapsed significantly in recent years due to COVID-19 pandemic, the Beirut Port explosion, and the war between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as its ramifications resulting in tensions and recurring attacks. The Pope's visit, whose title is derived from the words of Lord Jesus Christ in the Gospel, "Blessed are the peacemakers," is a prayer and a supplication, not inherently reflecting political plans. It is rather a plea for security, safety, and stability for a country referred to as "wounded" in various ways.

This visit reinforces the sublime Christian presence in Lebanon, with the entire churches working to serve society. It is an important opportunity to promote Christian-Muslim dialogue in a country where divisions sometimes overshadow commonalities. Yet, it is capable of restoring its harmony and unity through the efforts of the benevolent, moderate Christian and Muslim religious leaders and the distinguished intellectuals of this dear nation. Lebanon will returns, as the late Wadi' El-Safi sang: "A piece of heaven."

 Beirut has been adorned in its finest attire these days to welcome Pope Leo, who arrives in Lebanon today. May the Lord enshrine him with success.