Pope Leo XIV has begun a major journey to Turkey and Lebanon, setting off on the first overseas mission of his papacy with a call for unity at a time of tension in the region.
As he made his way to Ankara, he explained the spirit behind his travels, saying "all men, women can truly be brothers and sisters, in spite of differences, in spite of different religions, in spite of different beliefs". His message sets the tone for a trip that blends history, dialogue, and faith outreach.
The visits had originally been arranged by the late Pope Francis, yet Pope Leo has embraced them as part of his effort to build connections across communities.
Since taking office six months ago, he has been seen as steady and careful in how he leads the Church, and this trip will place his diplomatic style in the spotlight.
One of the most awaited moments will take place in Iznik, once known as Nicaea, where Pope Leo will stand alongside leaders from other Christian groups to observe the 1,700-year milestone of the council held there.
In the year 325 AD, more than 200 bishops met in the ancient city and affirmed the belief that Jesus is the son of God, a decision that formed the beginning of what later became the Nicene Creed.
Although Christianity later split into Eastern and Western traditions, this gathering aims to highlight shared roots and a wish for healing.
While in Turkey, the Pope will also step into the Blue Mosque, as both Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI did during their own trips. He is expected to meet other religious figures to encourage dialogue before moving to the next part of the journey.
The Vatican says that the schedule for Lebanon remains unchanged, even after Israeli airstrikes struck Beirut earlier in the week.
The Pope met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Palace in Ankara on November 27, 2025.PHOTO/REUTERSIn Lebanon, Pope Leo will speak with faith leaders and listen to young people. His arrival is expected to give hope to the Christian population, which forms about a third of the country.
The final day of the trip will bring him to the Beirut port area, where he will lead Mass on the waterfront at the site of the 2020 explosion. There he will pray for the more than 200 people who died and the thousands who were injured.
Though he has addressed topics such as the protection of migrants, Pope Leo has taken a softer approach on political issues compared to Pope Francis.
This careful tone has allowed people from both progressive and traditional sides of the Church to feel understood. Many believe this balance helped win support from cardinals with diverse views during the conclave that elected him.
Pope Leo has consistently asked for peace, but in a style distinct from Pope Francis, who often reached out directly to communities in conflict zones.
During this trip, discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and leaders in Lebanon may draw out his views on the unrest in the region. As is custom, he may speak more openly on the flight back to Rome during his conversation with reporters.
The journey will also bring a different sound to public speeches, as the Vatican says he will use English throughout his time in Turkey, offering audiences a chance to hear his natural Chicagoan accent.
In Lebanon, he will include some remarks in French, adding to the languages he already speaks with ease.
