Pope Leo XIV is travelling to Lebanon from 30 November to 2 December, where he will also visit the country's largest psychiatric hospital, which is supported by Misereor. In view of economic hardship, political paralysis and the acute regional conflict situation, Misereor attaches great importance to the visit - and hopes that the Pope will make clear appeals for peace, dialogue and the preservation of Lebanon's territorial integrity.

"The Franciscan Sisters of the Cross, who care for around 800 seriously mentally ill people in the hospital, are doing an extraordinary job," says Benjamin Schwab, Country Desk Officer for Lebanon. "Misereor is supporting the hospital with a solar power system - thanks to this, it is no longer dependent on expensive and polluting diesel generators. The energy supply is now more stable - and the hospital can invest the cost savings in urgently needed medical equipment and patient care."

Schwab emphasises that the Pope's visit to the clinic is also a strong signal for the weakest members of society: "It is precisely the population affected by poverty, the elderly and the sick that are quickly overlooked in times of crisis. The fact that the Pope is deliberately going there has an enormous symbolic effect."

Pope's visit amid regional tensions

For many people in Lebanon - including non-Christians - the Pope's trip is an expression of respect and international attention for a country whose inhabitants are suffering from numerous crises: Despite an agreed ceasefire, the country is currently being repeatedly attacked by Israel - partly because Hezbollah has so far refused to disarm.

"People are hoping that the visit will send a message of reconciliation and confidence for a better future," says Frank Wiegandt, Head of Misereor's dialogue and liaison office in Lebanon.

Message of reconciliation in the Middle East

Wiegandt is calling for a clear address from the political actors: "I expect the Pope to address the growing inequality and impoverishment of large sections of society caused by the economic collapse and the banking crash as a result of rampant corruption." In Lebanon, politics and religion are closely intertwined. Due to the existing tensions, Wiegandt also emphasises: "I am counting on Pope Leo to address the situation of Christians, whose future in the Middle East is uncertain. Many of them are living with packed suitcases and in constant fear for their homes."

The Pope could remind the various political and religious forces in the region that a peaceful coexistence of cultures and religions is only possible through responsible action.

Note:

Frank Wiegandt will accompany the Pope's visit to the hospital on 2 December and is available for press enquiries.