Pope Leo Warns Global Conflicts Threaten Humanity on First Foreign Trip
Istanbul / Beirut, Nov 28 — Pope Leo XIV, on his first overseas journey since becoming pontiff six months ago, warned that the future of humanity is at stake due to escalating global conflicts. Speaking in Turkey, he urged President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to act as a stabilizing force and promote dialogue in a world he described as witnessing a “third world war fought piecemeal.”
The Pope’s trip, which also includes Lebanon, commemorates the 1,700th anniversary of the historic Council of Nicaea, held in modern-day Iznik, Turkey. The council produced the Nicene Creed, a foundational statement of Christian faith, and this milestone has been central to the visit’s theme of fostering unity among divided Christian denominations.
During his visit to Turkey, Pope Leo is also scheduled to visit the Blue Mosque, engage in interfaith dialogue with religious leaders, and meet young people to emphasize peace and cooperation. Despite recent Israeli airstrikes in Beirut, the Vatican confirmed that his plans in Lebanon remain unchanged. There, he will meet civic and faith leaders, support the Christian community, and celebrate Mass at the site of the 2020 Beirut port explosion, honoring the victims and survivors.
Pope Leo, who speaks multiple languages, will use English with a Chicagoan accent for addresses in Turkey and some French in Lebanon, marking a notable departure from the Italian he has primarily used. His approach combines caution with a focus on consensus-building, balancing progressive ideals with respect for traditionalist perspectives within the Catholic Church.
Observers note that his measured diplomacy contrasts with Pope Francis, who was more outspoken on political and humanitarian issues. Pope Leo’s message during this trip is clear: global conflicts demand dialogue, unity, and careful leadership to prevent further human suffering.
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