Pope Leo XIV's visit to Lebanon concluded with a poignant moment as he led a silent prayer at the site of the devastating Beirut port explosion, demanding justice for its victims. This three-day visit was emotionally charged, as the Pope met with relatives of the 218 lives lost in the August 4, 2020, blast. The explosion, caused by a fire igniting 2,750 tonnes of unsafe ammonium nitrate, has left a lasting impact on the city. Despite widespread belief that officials and politicians were aware of the danger, no one has been held accountable, with the investigation hindered by political efforts to shield those responsible.
Cecile Roukoz, whose brother Joseph was killed, emphasized the significance of the Pope's visit, highlighting his advocacy for justice. Similarly, Tatiana Hasrouty, who lost her father, Ghassan, in the blast, expressed the families' need for recognition and truth. The Pope's prayer at the site symbolized his solidarity and support for the families' quest for justice.
In his final Mass, the Pope addressed a crowd of approximately 150,000 people on Beirut's waterfront, acknowledging the beauty of Lebanon overshadowed by poverty and suffering. He urged the country's diverse communities to unite, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and respect. The Pope's visit concluded with a powerful message, urging Lebanon to embrace unity and peace, where all are recognized as brothers and sisters.
Reflecting on the visit, the Pope noted Lebanon's unique coexistence of Islam and Christianity, a model for Europe and North America. He suggested that fostering dialogue and respect could be valuable lessons for these regions, encouraging a more open and understanding approach to cultural and religious diversity.
