It is our honor, at the Alawite Islamic Council, to express with great joy and affection our deep appreciation for His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, and to extend to him the highest greetings and respects on the occasion of his blessed visit to Lebanon, a country that, by God’s wisdom, has become a meeting place of religions, an oasis of dialogue, and a bridge between East and West.

Lebanon, with its spiritual and civil richness, is a welcoming home for coexistence among people of all faiths and communities. It is indeed a living example of the mission that Pope John Paul II described when he said about Lebanon: “More than a homeland, it is a message of free coexistence.”

Your presence among us, Your Holiness, is not merely a ceremonial or formal visit; rather, it is a living message to all Lebanese people, reaffirming that Lebanon, despite the trials it faces, remains capable of renewal, resilience, and of continuing its role in spreading spiritual and human values that unite, protect, and build society.

The Alawite Islamic Council, as an integral part of the Lebanese national fabric, sees in this visit a call for fraternity, the preservation of human dignity, and mutual support to strengthen the homeland and its people.

We all believe that humanity is of utmost value and that nations are built on mutual trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility. Your visit strengthens stability, promotes dialogue and understanding among Lebanon’s people, and revives the values of national unity above all other considerations.

Your voice is a voice of truth and justice, and the impact of your presence transcends borders to reach every person who aspires to a better future, a stable homeland, and a life of peace.

Finally, we sincerely thank Your Holiness for honoring Lebanon with this historic visit, praying to God that it brings blessings, renewal, and reinforces Lebanon’s role as a land of message, love, and humanity.

Long live Lebanon!

Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.