Karol Darmoros
The Pope and the American
“I think of myself rather as a Pope who just happens to be an American,” Leo XIV said in an interview with NBC. He stipulated that he does not want to diminish the significance of his origins in this way. “I was born in the United States. My family still lives in the United States. I have a great love for America,” he assured.
As he explained, he perceives his mission primarily as the ministry of the pastor of the universal church, having the opportunity to address people around the world. At the same time, he admitted that both for him and for the residents of the USA, “being the first American Pope is of great importance.”
Freedom and Opportunity
Leo XIV pointed out that he values the principles represented by America: the sense of freedom and opportunity, and openness to newcomers. He recalled that for generations, the United States has invited people from all over the world to become part of the country.
“I come from a family of immigrants on my grandparents’ side. Among my ancestors on my mother’s side were both slaves and slaveholders,” the Pope said. He pointed out that this complex history is a history of development, and the experience of diverse roots allows him to see himself as part of one of the greatest riches of the United States. He emphasized that he continues to stand for the principles that have been part of the American identity for many years.
Peace Despite Differences
Asked by Telemundo about migration and the fear in which millions of people live in the US today, Leo XIV referred to the recently concluded prayer meeting “Song of Peace.” In Castel Gandolfo, children and youth from various parts of the world performed together. The Pope called their singing and the participation of Andrea Bocelli “a truly edifying and very beautiful experience.”
“This beauty was, I think, an invitation for all of us to look further and see the beauty that can be created or in which we can participate when we put aside some differences and recognize the richness of the human person and the fact that we were all created in the image of God,” he said.
He also recalled the children’s questions: “Why is there war instead of peace? Why is there hatred instead of love?”. According to the Pope, we must rediscover the value of the human person and the awareness that we are all brothers and sisters.
Possible Visit to the USA
Leo XIV confirmed that he would like to personally convey this message in the United States. “Just today we were reviewing the calendar for the next two years. Nothing is final yet, but I really hope to go there soon,” he revealed on NBC.
Addressing migrants through Telemundo, he urged them to maintain hope. “You have to learn to live in peace, but you also have to have the courage and hope that always helps all of us,” Leo XIV said.
