Beirut, Dec 1, (dpa/GNA) – Pope Leo XIV, made a strong appeal for interreligious dialogue in Lebanon on Monday, praising the country as an example of the coexistence of different faiths.
Lebanon, battered by war and crises, shows that “Christians, Muslims, Druze and countless others can live together and build a country united by respect and dialogue,” the head of the Catholic Church said on a visit to Beirut.
“In an age when coexistence can seem like a distant dream, the people of Lebanon, while embracing different religions, stand as a powerful reminder that fear, distrust and prejudice do not have the final word, and unity, reconciliation, and peace are possible,” Leo declared.
In this context, the pope called on the Lebanese people to lead by example and be “builders of peace” in order to “confront intolerance, overcome violence, and banish exclusion.”
The pope was speaking alongside representatives of different faiths at Beirut’s Martyr’s Square, where the city’s famous Mohammad al-Amin Mosque and the Cathedral of Saint George stand side by side.
Lebanon is home to various religions communities, including Muslims, both Sunni and Shia, Christians and Druze.
The country is currently experiencing the worst economic crisis in its history, with around 60% of the population living in poverty.
The tense security situation following the most recent war between the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia and Israel, has further added to people’s woes.
Muslim and Christians worshippers greeted the pope in downtown Beirut amid a heavy security presence.
“I am Muslim, but the pope is for all and in this country we want unity and prayer,” Sami Kabbani told dpa.
Zeina Chabban, a Muslim Shiite travelled from Beirut’s southern suburbs “to see the pope because this is a historic thing for me and my children.”
A Muslim prayer was held in Leo’s presence before he addressed the crowds.
GNA