Pope Leo Draws Tens of Thousands to Beirut Waterfront for Final Mass

Beirut came to a standstill on Tuesday as Pope Leo XIV led a monumental open-air mass on the city’s waterfront, drawing tens of thousands of worshippers and marking the final day of his historic three-day visit to Lebanon.

President Joseph Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, and officials from across Lebanon’s religious spectrum attended the ceremony, underscoring the national significance of the event.

Crowds began gathering at dawn, filling the waterfront under tight security as helicopters patrolled overhead and surrounding streets were cleared hours before the mass began. Many attendees had waited since early morning, eager for a rare moment of unity and spiritual uplift.
“It’s an amazing feeling. I hope his visit brings to Lebanon a lot of joy, peace and stability,” said Beirut resident Elven Daher, originally from Marjayoun. “Maybe a few years later we can tell our kids about this.”

Pope Leo greeted the massive crowd from his popemobile before making his way to the pulpit, where prayers and hymns echoed across the waterfront. The mass served as the highlight and closing event of his Lebanon itinerary.

Earlier in the day, the pontiff visited Beirut’s port, leading a silent prayer at the site of the devastating August 2020 explosion that killed more than 220 people. He also met with families of the victims, reaffirming the Vatican’s support and solidarity.

The Pope’s visit arrives at a time when Lebanon continues to grapple with the aftermath of the blast, deep political paralysis, and ongoing Israeli attacks despite last year’s ceasefire—making his message of hope especially resonant.

Lebanon marked the final stop of Pope Leo’s regional trip, which also included a visit to Turkey. The journey coincided with the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, held in present-day Iznik, a landmark moment in Christian doctrinal history. The late Pope Francis had originally intended to make a similar visit, but his health prevented him from undertaking the trip.

Pope Leo’s final mass in Beirut now stands as one of the city’s most significant religious gatherings in recent years, closing his visit with symbolism, solidarity, and a renewed call for peace across Lebanon and the wider region.