BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) — Pope Leo XIV visited the site of the devastating Beirut port explosion from 2020, offering a silent prayer on the final day of his trip to Lebanon. The explosion, which occurred when hundreds of tons of ammonium nitrate detonated in a warehouse, resulted in the deaths of 218 individuals and caused billions of dollars in damage to the city.
During his visit, Leo was expected to meet with the relatives of the victims of the blast. Despite five years having passed since this tragic event, the families are still actively seeking justice. No official has been convicted in a judicial investigation that has faced continuous obstruction, leading to widespread anger among the Lebanese population who view the blast as part of a series of crises stemming from decades of corruption and financial malfeasance.
Upon his arrival in Lebanon on Sunday, Pope Leo called on the country’s political leaders to pursue the truth, emphasizing that it is essential for peace and reconciliation. Throughout his trip, he aimed to deliver a message of hope and solidarity to a nation grappling with ongoing economic and political turmoil, exacerbated by the port explosion.
On his last day in Lebanon, the Pope began his schedule with a visit to the De La Croix hospital, which specializes in psychological care. The visit was significant, reflecting his concern for mental health issues, especially in a country facing significant social challenges. The day was set to conclude with a Mass along the Beirut waterfront before Leo’s return to Rome.
During his visit, the Pope presided over a gathering of Lebanon’s Christian and Muslim spiritual leaders, celebrating the theme of interfaith coexistence. This gathering served as a powerful reminder of Lebanon’s rich tapestry of religious diversity and its potential for peace amid a conflict-plagued region.
Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Lebanon was not only a visit to a country marked by tragedy but also an effort to foster hope and encourage unity among its diverse communities. His call for truth and justice resonates deeply with those who have suffered greatly over the years and continues to inspire many in their quest for healing and reconciliation.
