Pope Leo XIV has been met with huge cheers and an enthusiastic welcome from Turkey's Catholic community, marking the start of his first foreign visit. The Pontiff arrived at Istanbul's Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, where he was mobbed by supporters on his first full day.
A Pilgrimage to Commemorate History
A central purpose of Pope Leo XIV's journey is to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. This pivotal event took place in 325 AD and was responsible for formulating the foundational Nicaean Creed. The official anniversary commemoration will be held in the modern city of Iznik, the original site of the council.
There, in a powerful display of Christian unity, Pope Leo will preside alongside Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. This joint ceremony is a landmark event, highlighting the significance of the ancient council for the entire Christian world.
Next Stop: Advocacy and Prayer in Lebanon
Following his engagements in Turkey, the Pope's itinerary will take him to Lebanon. His mission there is twofold: to bolster the country's Christian community and to advocate for justice concerning the 2020 Beirut port blast.
The Pontiff's schedule includes a poignant moment of silent prayer at the Beirut port blast site on 2 December. Many Lebanese citizens, frustrated by the stalled official investigation into the disaster, are hoping his visit will amplify their calls for accountability.
A Visit of Faith and Solidarity
The entire trip, beginning with the rapturous reception in Istanbul, underscores Pope Leo XIV's focus on engaging with global Christian communities. His journey weaves together a celebration of ancient faith with a modern mission of support and justice, creating a powerful narrative for his papacy's first foreign venture.
