Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has spoken warmly about his deep affection for the United States, describing its long tradition of freedom, opportunity and welcoming people from around the world as one of the country's greatest strengths. In a television interview, the first American born Pope also expressed hope that he will be able to visit his homeland within the next couple of years.
The interview was given to American broadcaster NBC on Wednesday evening after a special prayer gathering for peace held in Castel Gandolfo. The event featured renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and children from different countries who joined together in music and prayer, sending a powerful message of hope and unity.
During the interview, Pope Leo was asked what it means to be the first American Pope in the history of the Catholic Church. He replied that while he was born in the United States and continues to have strong family ties there, he now sees himself above all as the Pope who happens to be American.
He explained that his mission is much larger than representing one nation. As the leader of the Catholic Church, he said his responsibility is to serve the universal Church and to bring a message of hope, faith and peace to people across the world. At the same time, he acknowledged that becoming the first Pope from the United States carries great meaning both for him and for many Americans.
Reflecting on what he admires most about America, Pope Leo pointed to the country's enduring ideals. He said he values its strong sense of freedom, its belief in opportunity and its history of opening its doors to people from many different nations. According to the Pope, these qualities have helped shape the country's identity over generations.
He also spoke personally about his own family history. His grandparents were immigrants who came to the United States in search of a better future. Looking even further back, he revealed that members of his mother's family included both enslaved people and slave owners. He said this complex history reminds him of how America has grown through both its achievements and its struggles.
The Pope described this diverse background as one of the country's greatest treasures because it reflects the experiences of many different people who have helped build the nation. He said he continues to believe in the values that have guided America for many years and hopes those principles will remain strong in the future.
The conversation also turned to the possibility of a papal visit to the United States. Pope Leo revealed that he and his advisers had been reviewing the calendar for the coming years. Although no official plans have yet been confirmed, he said he sincerely hopes to travel to the country soon.
Following the NBC interview, Pope Leo also spoke with the Spanish language broadcaster Telemundo. He reflected on the moving scenes he had witnessed during the prayer service for peace, where children from many nations sang together despite their different backgrounds.
The Pope described the event as a beautiful reminder that people can achieve great things when they set aside their differences and recognise the dignity shared by every human person. He said all people are created in the image of God and are called to respect one another.
He also referred to the prayers offered by the children, many of whom asked why the world continues to experience war and hatred instead of peace and love. Pope Leo said humanity must rediscover the values of brotherhood and sisterhood. He encouraged people to build societies that seek peace, welcome one another and overcome division through understanding and cooperation.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo addressed migrants directly. He encouraged them to remain hopeful and to seek ways of living peacefully and responsibly within society. While acknowledging that every country must deal with crime and maintain public order, he stressed that lasting societies are built through peace, mutual respect and hope. He urged migrants and communities alike to work together so that differences become a source of strength rather than conflict, saying that hope and courage are essential in overcoming hatred and creating a more peaceful world.