The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will make his first trip outside Italian territory between November 27 and December 2, 2025, with scheduled visits to Turkey and Lebanon.
In Turkey, he will stop in Iznik, the ancient city of Nicaea, to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a landmark event that helped define core Christian doctrines. Afterward, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Lebanon to express his solidarity with the nation amid ongoing social and economic challenges.
According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the pontiff accepted invitations from both civil and ecclesiastical authorities in the two countries. The goal of this journey is to strengthen ties with the Catholic and other Christian communities in the Middle East.
Why is this trip so significant for his papacy?
Because this first journey beyond Italy not only celebrates major milestones of Christian history but also underscores Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to dialogue and pastoral support in regions marked by hardship and faith.
