Key facts
- Pope Leo, the first US pontiff, expressed affection for the United States and its core principles.
- He highlighted his own family's immigrant background and ancestors who were both enslaved and slaveowners.
- Leo stated his primary role is as pastor of a universal church, giving him a global voice.
- He praised the US for historically inviting people from around the world and upholding freedom and opportunity.
- The pontiff has previously condemned Donald Trump's immigration policies as 'inhuman'.
- Leo visited Lampedusa on July 4th, a key entry point for migrants seeking refuge in Europe.
Pope Leo, the first pontiff from the United States, has spoken about his deep affection for his home country and its foundational ideals of freedom and opportunity. In an interview with NBC, he reflected on his personal history, noting that his grandparents were immigrants and that his maternal lineage included individuals who were both enslaved and slaveowners. Leo emphasized that while he loves America, his primary identity is as a "pope who happens to be American," with a mission to serve a universal church and speak to people globally.