Pope Leo Sets Aug. 22 Fast for Peace, Plans First Lebanon Visit

Pope Leo on Wednesday urged Catholics and other believers worldwide to observe a day of fasting and prayer on 22 August, seeking peace in Ukraine, the Middle East and other conflict zones. Announcing the initiative during his weekly audience at the Vatican, the pontiff said the faithful should ask God to “grant us peace and justice and to wipe away the tears of those who suffer because of the ongoing armed conflicts.” The appeal extends a series of diplomatic and humanitarian gestures made by Leo, the first U.S.-born pope elected in May. He has repeatedly offered to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow, spoken with leaders on both sides and highlighted civilian suffering in his public remarks. Separately, Cardinal Bechara Rai said the pope intends to travel to Lebanon by December in what would be his first trip outside Italy. A Vatican official confirmed preparations are under way, adding that the visit could be combined with a stop in Turkey. Lebanon, home to more than two million Catholics, was due to host the late Pope Francis before health problems forced a cancellation.