Pope Leo XIV to Visit Turkey and Lebanon on First International Trip

Pope Leo XIV is set to undertake his inaugural international trip, visiting Turkey and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2, 2025. The Vatican announced that the pontiff accepted invitations from the heads of state and ecclesiastical authorities of both nations.

In Turkey, Pope Leo will commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea by visiting Iznik, the modern-day site of the ancient council. He is scheduled to meet with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, underscoring efforts toward Christian unity.

Following his visit to Turkey, the pope will travel to Lebanon, a country with a significant Christian population. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed that the visit would deepen the "unwavering trust" between Lebanon and the Vatican and serve as a sign of peace in the diverse nation.

The Assembly of the Catholic Patriarchs and Bishops in Lebanon conveyed their gratitude, stating, "We receive this historic event with great joy and renewed hope, praying this apostolic visit may bring Lebanon peace and stability, and that it may be a sign of unity for all Lebanese Christians and Muslims alike, in this delicate phase of our nation’s history."

This journey reflects Pope Leo XIV's commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and supporting Christian communities in the Middle East.