Pontiff Highlights Immigrant Legacy on America’s 250th Anniversary

 

Pope Leo XIV Urges Moderation in U.S. Debate

Pope Leo XIV has called on the United States to embrace moderation and respect in public debate, reminding the nation of how successive waves of immigrants have shaped its identity.

In a video message broadcast live from the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the Chicago-born pontiff encouraged Americans to seek “points of understanding” and to cultivate unity. He emphasized that immigration has been central to the country’s future, urging that this tradition continue to bear fruit in discussions marked by respect and reconciliation.

The Pope’s remarks coincided with the U.S. Independence Day celebrations and his upcoming visit to Lampedusa. He expressed hope that the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence would inspire a “renewed solemn commitment” to the founding ideals of freedom, democracy, and human dignity.

During the event, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost wore the Liberty Medal awarded in 2026, which honors defenders of freedom and human rights. While avoiding direct references to President Donald Trump, the Pope’s speech implicitly challenged policies of harsh immigration enforcement and the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Trump had previously criticized the pontiff as weak and incompetent in foreign policy, but Leo XIV responded that he did not fear the U.S. administration. Reaffirming Catholic teaching, the Pope also stressed the importance of protecting human life “from conception to natural death,” underscoring opposition to abortion and euthanasia.