Pope Leo XIV Prays for Peace in Lebanon and Middle East During General Audience

Vatican City, May 20, 2026– Pope Leo XIV renewed his call for peace in Lebanon and the wider Middle East during his Wednesday General Audience, while welcoming His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Armenian Apostolic Church – See of Cilicia.

The Pope greeted Catholicos Aram I in St. Peter’s Square, two days after the two Church leaders met and prayed together at the Vatican Apostolic Palace. Addressing the gathering, Pope Leo described the Catholicos’ visit as an important opportunity to strengthen relations and deepen the bonds of unity between the Catholic Church and the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Expressing his joy at the visit, Pope Leo said he hoped it would help advance the journey towards fuller communion between the Churches. He also prayed that the Holy Spirit would bless the Armenian leader’s pilgrimage to the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul.

The Pope invited the faithful to pray for the success of the meetings and for greater unity among Christians. He also renewed his appeal for peace in regions affected by conflict.

Turning attention to current global tensions, Pope Leo urged people to pray for Lebanon and the Middle East, saying the region was once again being torn apart by violence and war.

He also praised Catholicos Aram I for his continued dedication to ecumenism, highlighting his efforts in promoting theological dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Concluding his remarks, Pope Leo called for the intercession of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, Saint Gregory of Nareg, Saint Nerses the Gracious and the Virgin Mary, praying that they would guide Christians on the path towards the unity they seek.

During an earlier meeting at the Vatican on Monday, Pope Leo had assured Catholicos Aram I of his daily prayers and concern for the people of Lebanon and the Churches across the Middle East.

Pope Leo XIV Prays for Peace in Lebanon and Middle East During General Audience

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