Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has accepted the 2026 Liberty Medal, using the occasion to call on the United States to renew its commitment to life, liberty, human dignity, religious freedom, unity and peace as the country marks 250 years since its founding.
The Pope received the prestigious award from the National Constitution Center in recognition of his lifelong commitment to religious liberty and freedom of conscience and expression around the world. Addressing a gathering in Philadelphia from Rome on Friday, he reflected on the ideals that shaped the United States and prayed that these values would continue to guide the nation.
The Liberty Medal had been presented to Pope Leo during a private audience at the Vatican in April, when a delegation from the National Constitution Center met him. Three months later, on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Pope formally accepted the award and delivered a message focused on the country's past, present and future.
Speaking as an American, Pope Leo said he joined the nation in asking for God's blessings upon its future. He recalled the courage of the men and women who dreamed of freedom and a better life for themselves and their children. He expressed hope that the ideals found in the Declaration of Independence would continue to guide the country towards unity, justice and peace.
The Pope reflected on the Declaration's affirmation that all people are created equal and possess rights that cannot be taken away, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. He said these principles are closely connected to the biblical understanding that every human person is created in the image of God.
According to Pope Leo, human dignity exists before any government or political system. He said one of the central responsibilities of a state is to respect and protect that dignity.
Looking back over the past 250 years, the Pope said America's commitment to freedom helped make the country a symbol of hope for people from many parts of the world. He noted that generations of immigrants arrived in the United States and played an important role in building the nation and shaping its future.
He also recalled the sacrifices made by Americans during the two world wars, saying the country looked beyond its own interests and supported the cause of freedom outside its borders.
At the same time, Pope Leo acknowledged that the effort to build a society based on liberty and justice has not always been easy. He said the task remains unfinished in many ways and must be taken up again by every generation as new challenges emerge.
The Pope placed particular emphasis on the protection of human life. He said the right to life is fundamental because a person who is deprived of life cannot enjoy freedom or pursue happiness.
He said the strength and moral health of a nation are closely connected to the value it gives to every human life, regardless of condition or circumstances. Pope Leo called for a culture of respect for life and for laws that protect human life from conception until natural death.
He added that the moral greatness of a country can be seen in how it treats the most vulnerable members of society, especially people whose value or dignity may be questioned.
Turning to the meaning of liberty, Pope Leo said freedom has long attracted people seeking a new beginning in America. He said the desire for truth, freedom and happiness continues to lead people to ask deep questions about the meaning of life, human purpose and God.
Religious freedom was another central theme of the Pope's message. He said the United States has a long tradition of protecting the right of people to follow their conscience without fear or coercion. He referred to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution as an important protection for this freedom.
The Pope explained that religious liberty is not limited to private worship. It also protects the right of individuals, communities and religious organisations to express their beliefs publicly and contribute to society.
He praised the role of religious freedom in encouraging dialogue between different faith communities. Such cooperation, he said, can strengthen the common good and enrich public discussion on major moral and ethical questions.
Pope Leo also called for moderation and respect in public life. He expressed hope that the American tradition of religious freedom would continue to encourage respectful dialogue, even among people with different opinions. He said the search for common ground is essential for peace and reconciliation both within the country and around the world.
Reflecting on America's diverse history, the Pope noted that the country's earlier generations came from different backgrounds and spoke different languages. Despite their differences, they were able to find common ground and work towards a shared future.
He recalled the national motto, E pluribus unum, meaning out of many, one, and said unity gave strength to the American dream. According to the Pope, a nation cannot remain strong if it is united only by temporary goals. Lasting unity must be built on enduring principles and shared respect for the dignity of every person.
As he concluded his address, Pope Leo expressed hope that the 250th anniversary of the United States would become a moment of serious reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals that have shaped the country.
He prayed that human dignity, equality and the rights expressed in the Declaration of Independence would remain a source of unity and guidance for the years ahead. The Pope also expressed hope that America would continue to be known for peace, prosperity, generosity and nobility of heart.
Entrusting the future of the United States to God, whom he described as the source of true freedom and lasting peace, Pope Leo XIV ended his address with a simple prayer for the nation: “May God bless America.”