Pope Leo XIV, head of the Catholic Church chose Lebanon as one of the first countries he will visit in the region. This decision seems to carry deep political and religious symbolism and sends layered messages to both the Lebanese people and the wider region.

Traditionally, popes have reserved their first visits for major world capitals or countries of global political influence. By choosing Lebanon, a small dot on the world’s map, and a country grappling with one of the worst crises in its history, Pope Leo breaks with precedent and places Lebanon firmly at the heart of the Vatican’s moral and spiritual geography.

Pope Leo XIV, who succeeded Pope Francis earlier this year, will make his first apostolic trip to Turkey and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2. His visit to Lebanon is scheduled from November 30 to December 2 in response to an invitation from the Lebanese President and ecclesiastical authorities.