Beirut: During the celebratory Mass at the Beirut waterfront, Pope Leo XIV urged the Lebanese people to hold onto gratitude despite life’s hardships, saying: ‘At times, under the weight of life’s difficulties, we tend to give in rather than give thanks. I urge you, people of Lebanon, to always preserve a spirit of gratitude.’
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, he continued: ‘We are called not to despair.’ Acknowledging Lebanon’s deep struggles, he noted that ‘this beauty is overshadowed by poverty, suffering, political instability, economic crisis, violence, and conflict.’
The Pope concluded with a powerful call: ‘Do not despair. I say to Lebanon: rise and be a sign of peace in the East.’