Written by Julia Nader
In a world overwhelmed with questions, a voice of hope rises from the heart of the Vatican…
We extend our warmest congratulations to the Catholic Church and to all the faithful around the world on the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope in the history of the Holy See. He comes with the spirit of fatherhood and service, to restore to the world its lost voice—the voice of peace, the voice of love.
Lebanon Times is proud, in this special issue, to present to its readers a comprehensive feature on the new Pope, whose election coincided with Father’s Day, allowing us to celebrate fatherhood in its highest form: the biological father who nurtures, and the spiritual father who enlightens.
At the dawn of this new era, we see in Pope Leo XIV not just a spiritual leader, but a living conscience for the world, and an honest call for peace—one we need more than ever.
A Special Feature by Lebanon Times
In a rare moment, the world held its breath as white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney in the Vatican, announcing the election of a new spiritual father to the faithful.
“Habemus Papam”… Yes, we have a Pope!
And so, Cardinal Robert Francis of the United States stood upon the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, having chosen the name Leo XIV, and blessed the crowd, declaring the beginning of a papal mission filled with hope in a world thirsty for mercy.
The First American Pope… A Symbol of Openness
Pope Leo XIV is the first Pontiff ever elected from the United States—a historic moment that reflects the Church’s evolving openness toward a changing world, embracing cultural and linguistic diversity
among its faithful.
This election did not come out of nowhere; it is the culmination of a life filled with faith, education, and service to the poor.
And though his origins have not been officially confirmed, the rumor of possible ancestral ties to Lebanon has sparked a warm light in the hearts of people across the East, who see in this election a beautiful intersection between Rome and the Levant.
If these roots are indeed true, it would bring hidden joy to Lebanon—a land that has long given rise to men of faith and wisdom.
His First Speech: Humility and a Call for Peace
In his first address, the Pope spoke in simple yet profound words.
He called for the Church to be “a home open to all“, pledging to listen to the cries of the people and to build bridges instead of walls, affirming that:
“Power lies not in authority, but in love that embraces all.”
His tone evoked the spirit of Pope Francis, yet it carried its own strength and warmth—a close, fatherly, and unpretentious presence.
A Father to the World… On Father’s Day
The election of the new Pope comes at a symbolic time—Father’s Day.
How fitting it is that this issue’s cover features a biological father, honoring his role in building values within the family, while dedicating a special feature to the spiritual father of the Church, who inspires millions with genuine love and a message of peace.
In a world where values have crumbled, families are torn apart, and the innocent are displaced, the new Pope made it clear:
“I will not be above you, but among you. Not a ruler, but a servant. Not a symbol, but a father.”
A Life of Faith Since Childhood
Born Robert Francis in Chicago, the new Pope was raised in a devout Catholic family.
From a young age, he showed deep spiritual sensitivity and intellectual curiosity, leading him to study philosophy and theology at prestigious universities in the U.S. and Rome.
He entered the priesthood early and steadily rose through the Church’s ranks, eventually becoming a respected Cardinal—especially known for his commitment to social justice and his care for the poor and marginalized.
Among his most notable contributions were his oversight of refugee assistance programs, his consistent calls for interfaith dialogue, and his firm rejection of racial and religious discrimination, earning him admiration both inside and outside the Church.
A Modern Pope with a Traditional Spirit
Despite his cultural openness and human-centered approach, Pope Leo XIV remains deeply committed to the core of Catholic doctrine.
He calls for a return to authentic values, not through rigidity, but through a balance between tradition and renewal.
Notably, he has actively engaged with young people, using social media platforms even before his election as a way to directly connect with new generations—extending his hand to the future without letting go of the past.
A Message of Love in a Divided World
In a time where violence is accelerating and dialogue is fading, Pope Leo XIV carried the torch of hope and declared:
“My heart is with every child who lost their parents, with every mother seeking shelter, with all who have lost hope. The Church will not remain silent.”
These words were a universal humanitarian call that transcended religious and geographic boundaries, reaffirming the Church’s role as a light in the path of the oppressed and displaced.
A Cover That Carries Hope
This issue of Lebanon Times marks a defining moment in Church history, shedding light on a man who chose to become a father in an age of spiritual orphanhood.
We may not yet know every detail, and his origins may never be confirmed,
but we are certain of one thing: Every voice that calls for peace is a voice from the conscience of humanity.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)