Pope Leo Calls on Lebanese Youth To Build Hope Amid Hardship

Beirut, 2 December 2025 — At a large gathering near the seat of the Maronite Patriarchate in Bkerké, Pope Leo XIV met with around 15,000 young people from across Lebanon, urging them to remain hopeful, committed to peace and to become agents of reconciliation in a country still bearing deep scars of economic crisis, conflict and emigration. 

In his address, the Pope acknowledged the many hardships young Lebanese face — from economic instability to social uncertainty — but called on them not to surrender to despair. Instead, he encouraged them to “dream, plan and do good,” grounding themselves in faith and solidarity as they work to rebuild trust and hope within their communities. 

Youth present at the event described the meeting as a moment of comfort and renewed aspiration. One 24-year-old participant said the gathering felt like support from an older brother — a sign that their struggles mattered and that they were not alone in seeking a peaceful future. 

Reflecting on Lebanon’s turbulent history, Pope Leo urged young people not to leave their country but to engage in its healing. He appealed for unity among Christians and Muslims alike, emphasizing that peace and coexistence are possible through compassion, respect and everyday acts of solidarity.

The meeting concluded with prayers and a renewed commitment among the youth to build a future shaped by hope, justice and communal harmony — underscoring the Pope’s vision of a church and society rooted in love, faith and peace.

Source and Image Credits : Vatican News