LEBANON (Enmaeya News) - December 2, 2025

Addressing thousands of young people gathered in Bkerke on Monday evening, Pope Leo XIV opened his remarks in Arabic with the words, “Peace be with you,” drawing loud applause from the crowd.

The Pope thanked those in attendance for their welcome and expressed gratitude to Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi for his earlier address. He also greeted youth who had traveled from Lebanon, Syria and Iraq to take part in the event.

In his speech, Pope Leo said the testimonies he heard reflected “hope and kindness” despite the challenges faced by Lebanon’s younger generations. He acknowledged Lebanon’s long history of cultural and social achievements while noting that the country carries “deep wounds that are difficult to heal.”

The Pope told the youth that the future of Lebanon rests in their hands, calling their role a “historic opportunity” to drive change. He emphasized that kindness, commitment, and solidarity have the power to mend the nation’s divisions.

Pope Leo added that Lebanon “will regain its youth,” describing young people as a symbol of unity and renewal for the country. He warned, however, that peace cannot be based on “the interests of some individuals,” stressing that “there is no peace without justice, and no justice without forgiveness.”

The address marked a central moment in the Pope’s visit, underscoring the Vatican’s continued focus on Lebanon’s stability and the role of its youth in shaping the nation’s path forward.