On Monday December 1, on the second day of his apostolic visit to Lebanon, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV participated in the ecumenical meeting and interreligious dialogue held at the Martyrs' Square in downtown Beirut in the presence of heads of religious communities and churches from Lebanon and neighboring countries.

During the meeting, the Holy Father praised Lebanon referring to it as a blessed land that brings together religions and sects. Emphasizing the importance of dialogue and unity among the Lebanese people, he noted that religious diversity in Lebanon presents an opportunity to enhance peace; and noted that sincere dialogue among the extended citizens of the nation is the best way to consolidate common living.

Pope Leo pointed out that Lebanon faces huge challenges, but its people remain a model of adhering to hope and for adhering to peace and unity. Calling for more joint action among the Lebanese to build a secure future for the country, he said: “In this beloved land, may every bell, every call to prayer, and every supplication blend into one sublime hymn, not only confined to glorify the merciful Creator of Heaven and Earth, but also to offer a sincere prayer for the divine grace of peace."

The meeting included addresses by eight religious leaders, who welcomed His Holiness the Pope and underlined the importance of preserving unity and promoting peace in Lebanon. At the conclusion of the meeting, Pope Leo XIV planted an olive tree in Martyrs' Square that symbolizes peace and love among the Lebanese people.