ROME, Italy: Pope Leo XIV says he sees himself as “the pope who happens to be American”, saying his mission is to serve the Universal Church despite his deep affection for the United States (US).
In an interview with NBC on Wednesday at Castel Gandolfo, the Chicago-born pontiff said he had “great love” for America and admired its values of freedom, opportunity and welcoming immigrants.
“I have great love for America, but I understand my mission … is being pastor of a universal Church,” said Leo, the first US-born pope, who spent nearly two decades as a missionary in Peru.
Leo, 70, also noted his family history included both slaves and slave owners.
The pope has repeatedly defended migrants, describing the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown as “inhuman”, and said he hoped to visit the US “soon”, although no trip has been planned. – AFP
