Pope Leo XIV Attracts Huge Crowds During Emotional Visit to Beirut

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Beirut is preparing for one of its most significant public events in years, as over 120,000 individuals plan to attend Pope Leo XIV’s mass on Tuesday — the culmination of his historic trip to Lebanon. His presence has infused a rare sense of hope into a nation still grappling with the aftermath of conflict, economic instability, and the memory of the devastating 2020 port explosion.

The pope arrived in Beirut on Sunday, marking his inaugural international journey since assuming the papacy. Throughout his visit, he has focused on themes of resilience, unity, and inspiration for the youth of Lebanon, many of whom face an uncertain future.

For numerous residents of Beirut, this visit has provided an emotional lift. “It has brought smiles back to our faces,” remarked Yasmine Chidiac, who joined the crowds eager for a glimpse of the pope on Monday.

Open-Air Mass Enforced by Strict Security

The extensive open-air mass will take place near the waterfront of Beirut, where registration numbers exceeded initial projections significantly. Strict security protocols have been enacted, with large areas of central Beirut sealed off starting Monday evening and checkpoints established in surrounding neighborhoods.

A Moment of Reflection at the Blast Site

Prior to the mass, Pope Leo will visit the port, the site of one of the most significant non-nuclear explosions in contemporary history. The August 4, 2020 blast claimed over 220 lives and devastated large portions of the capital. Despite various warnings about the ammonium nitrate stockpiled at the location, investigations into the disaster remain stagnant due to political interference.

At the port, he will engage in a silent prayer and meet families of victims as well as survivors, many of whom continue struggling for answers five years post-tragedy.

Humanitarian Outreach and Youth Engagement

Earlier on Monday, the pope visited a psychiatric hospital operated by nuns in the city, interacting with both staff and residents in a sign of solidarity that resonated with local communities.

In Bkerke, the heart of the Maronite church, he was met with an enthusiastic crowd as thousands of young Lebanese welcomed him like an international emblem. Speaking to about 15,000 youth, he encouraged them to harness their energy towards reconstructing their homeland. “You possess the enthusiasm to alter the course of history,” he stated, eliciting loud cheers from the audience.

A Journey That Brought Hope to a Worn Nation

From interfaith dialogue with Christian and Muslim leaders to spontaneous interactions with the public, Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Lebanon has transcended political divides and alleviated fears of renewed conflict with Israel. For many, even fleeting moments of unity and hope offer a refreshing change.

As Beirut readies itself for Tuesday's grand assembly, the city finds itself at a juncture of grief, faith, and renewed anticipation — with the pope's presence giving thousands a reason to look ahead rather than dwell on the past.