Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming three-day visit to Lebanon has ignited a wave of hope among Lebanese citizens, both at home and abroad, as the nation grapples with persistent crises and conflict. The pontiff, who will arrive in Beirut on Sunday after a stop in Turkey, is set to lead an open-air mass at the city’s waterfront, expected to attract 120,000 attendees. The visit also includes a special meeting with young people aged 16 to 35 in Bkerke, the seat of Lebanon’s Maronite Church. For many, the papal visit symbolizes a beacon of reassurance and unity for a country battered by economic collapse, political instability, and ongoing regional tensions. Rachelle Mazraani, a 23-year-old Lebanese-Australian, expressed her optimism, stating that the visit reminds the Lebanese of their enduring spiritual identity and mission in the region. Lebanon, a multi-confessional nation with a Christian head of state, has seen its Christian population dwindle due to emigration and crises. The pope’s message of peace and interfaith dialogue is particularly poignant as the country faces regular Israeli strikes and fears of renewed conflict. Billboards across Lebanon featuring the pope with the slogan ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’ reflect the nation’s yearning for stability. The visit has also drawn significant international attention, with delegations from countries like Syria and Nigeria participating in the youth meeting. For many, the event represents a historic moment to inspire unity and rebuild a fractured nation. Lebanon has declared a two-day official holiday to encourage public participation, while hotels are offering special deals to accommodate visitors. Despite the challenges, the pope’s visit is seen as a catalyst for hope and renewal in a region grappling with turmoil.