Popes

On his first trip as pontiff, Leo XIV predictably called for peace and unity. But he also addressed technology’s promise and pitfalls.

The pontiff met political leaders upon his arrival on Sunday and will later say Mass at a Beirut port destroyed by an explosion five years ago.

The pope started his six-day trip, which will also include a visit to Lebanon.

A papal video message appeared before a crowd of hundreds in Slovakia, as Guilherme Peixoto, a priest who doubles as an electronic D.J., put on a show.

Pope Francis greatly limited the use of the traditional Latin Mass, believing it sowed division. Traditionalist Catholics are hoping Pope Leo charts a different path.

It was the first time in hundreds of years that the leaders of the Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches prayed together, offering a public display of unity.

The choice signals that Pope Leo XIV aims to press for peace in the Middle East and show support for Christians in the region.