In a historic pilgrimage marked by ecumenical outreach, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Turkey and Lebanon from Nov. 27 to Dec. 2, visiting the region’s ancient Christian communities for the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea.
The Vatican released a detailed itinerary Oct. 27 following confirmation earlier in the month that the Pope would travel to the countries for the first major international journey of his papacy.
The trip reflects the Holy Father’s commitment to Christian unity, global solidarity, and pastoral renewal. Standing as a milestone in Church history, the First Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D. defined the divinity of Christ and gave us the Nicene Creed, which continues to unite Christians across denominations.
Pope Leo will mark this anniversary with an ecumenical prayer service near the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos in İznik (ancient Nicaea). He will be joined by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I and other Christian leaders.
The Pope’s itinerary begins in Ankara with diplomatic meetings, followed by an interreligious visit to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul. A highlight of his time in Turkey will be the signing of a joint declaration with Patriarch Bartholomew, reaffirming Catholic-Orthodox dialogue and mutual respect.
On Nov. 30, the Pope travels to Lebanon, where he will participate in a variety of activities:
- Visit the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf, a beloved Maronite saint.
- Meet with bishops, clergy, and pastoral leaders at Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine.
- Lead an interfaith gathering in Martyrs’ Square, Beirut.
- Offer silent prayer at the Beirut port explosion site.
- Celebrate Holy Mass at Beirut Waterfront, offering comfort to a nation in need of hope.
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