On His Role in Coordinating the Financial Preparations for the Historic Visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon
As Lebanon prepares to welcome His Holiness Pope Leo XIV from November 30 to December 2, 2025, the country’s Christian community stands united in anticipation of a visit that promises to bring a renewed message of peace, unity, and faith.
Appointed by Bishop Michel Aoun, President of the Executive Council of the Assembly of Catholic Patriarchs and Bishops in Lebanon, Mr. Roger Zaccar has been entrusted with overseeing the financial coordination for this historic event. A respected figure within the Melkite Catholic Church, known for his integrity and longstanding commitment to inter-church collaboration, Mr. Zaccar shares his insights on the significance of the visit, the preparations underway, and the values that guide his mission.
Q1: Mr. Zaccar, what does the visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV represent for Lebanon and its Catholic community?
A: The Pope’s visit carries profound symbolic and spiritual meaning for all Lebanese, not only for Catholics. It reaffirms Lebanon’s role as a land of coexistence and dialogue between East and West. For our Christian community, it is a moment of unity, faith, and hope — a reminder that despite our challenges, Lebanon continues to embody the values of peace and human dignity that the Vatican has always upheld.
Q2: You have been chosen by Bishop Michel Aoun to coordinate the financial aspects of this visit. How do you approach such a responsibility?
A: It is an honor and a sacred duty. Transparency, accountability, and collaboration are my guiding principles. Every contribution made to support this event is an act of faith and solidarity. My role is to ensure that these resources are managed with the utmost integrity and used solely to serve the success of this blessed occasion.
Q3: The Melkite Catholic Church is known for its loyalty to the Vatican and its strong ties with the Maronite Church. How do you see this unity reflected in the current preparations?
A: This unity is at the heart of our mission. The cooperation between the Melkite and Maronite Churches reflects the beauty of diversity within the Catholic family. We may have different liturgical traditions, but our message is one — loyalty to the Church, service to Lebanon, and witness to Christ’s love. The preparation for the Pope’s visit is a perfect example of this shared spirit.
Q4: What message do you hope Lebanon will convey to the world through this papal visit?
A: Lebanon has always been more than a country — it’s a message of coexistence. In a time when the region faces division and uncertainty, this visit is a call to unity, dialogue, and faith. I hope the world sees that Lebanon, despite its hardships, remains a land of openness, tolerance, and deep spirituality.
Q5: On a personal level, how does this mission resonate with your own values and beliefs?
A: Faith has always guided my life and work. To serve the Church in preparing for the Pope’s visit is both humbling and deeply meaningful. It’s not just about logistics or finances — it’s about contributing to something greater than ourselves, something that renews hope in the hearts of all Lebanese.