Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Thanksgiving & Embarks on Historic Turkey Trip

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Pope Leo XIV, the groundbreaking American pontiff, has embarked on his first international trip, traveling to Turkey and Lebanon with the goal of promoting harmony and reconciliation across faiths. The Pope's itinerary includes visits to significant religious and political sites, as well as meetings with Turkish leaders and the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. His journey is seen as a bold attempt to bridge divides and showcase the human side of spiritual leadership, even as it raises questions about navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.

Why it matters

Pope Leo XIV's maiden voyage overseas represents a significant moment in his papacy, as he seeks to position the Catholic Church as a force for unity and peace in a world marked by religious and political tensions. His outreach to predominantly Muslim nations, as well as his engagement with the Eastern Orthodox Church, reflects a desire to transcend traditional boundaries and foster greater understanding between diverse faiths. However, the timing of his visit, coming shortly after military actions in Lebanon, has also raised questions about the potential political implications of his diplomatic efforts.

The details

On his flight to Turkey, Pope Leo XIV personally greeted about 80 reporters, including a CNN team, and shared traditional American Thanksgiving treats like pumpkin and pecan pies. He also revealed his daily strategy for solving the popular word game Wordle, showcasing his approachable and relatable persona. Upon landing in Ankara, the Pope's packed agenda includes honoring Ataturk, Turkey's founding father, meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and visiting the Diyanet, the country's Presidency of Religious Affairs. In Istanbul, he will connect with the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and join festivities marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a historic gathering that defined fundamental Christian doctrines.

• On Thursday, Pope Leo XIV embarked on a six-day excursion to Turkey and Lebanon.
• The Pope's stop in Beirut, Lebanon, follows recent Israeli airstrikes on the Lebanese capital.

What’s next

The Pope's visit to Turkey and Lebanon will continue over the next several days, with a focus on fostering unity and understanding between diverse faiths and communities.