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As the College of Cardinals prepares for the papal conclave, Middle Eastern Christians express their hopes for the next pope. They desire a leader who understands their suffering, promotes ecumenical unity, and continues Pope Francis's support for their communities. A Lebanese seminarian seeks a pope rooted in Christ, while an Iraqi Christian emphasizes the importance of remembering the persecuted Church. A Syrian priest calls for a pope who conveys the suffering of Syrian Christians, and a Palestinian analyst hopes for moral clarity and concrete action, particularly concerning the situation in Palestine. An Orthodox scholar emphasizes the need for unity through a return to tradition.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.