Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV urged the U.S. to recommit to its founding ideals of protecting life and human dignity.
- The Pope recalled America's tradition of welcoming migrants and promoting religious freedom.
- Leo received the National Constitution Center's Liberty Medal for his work promoting religious liberty.
- The Pope's visit to Lampedusa, a major migrant destination, is timed for the U.S.'s 250th anniversary.
- Leo emphasized that a nation's moral greatness is shown in its care for the vulnerable.
Pope Leo XIV prayed Friday for the United States to recommit itself to its founding ideals of protecting life and human dignity as he participated remotely in an event on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The first U.S.-born pope recalled America’s tradition of welcoming migrants and promoting religious freedom during a video appearance at the National Constitution Center, which awarded him its annual Liberty Medal. Leo stated that the moral greatness of a nation is manifested in its capacity to support, protect and cherish the lives of all, especially the most vulnerable. The Pope's planned visit to Lampedusa, a key destination for migrants crossing the Mediterranean, on July 4 is seen as a symbolic statement on immigration.