Pope Leo XIV Discusses American Identity and Ancestral History of Slavery

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, stated in a recent interview with NBC that while he has great love for the United States, he views himself primarily as the pastor of a universal church rather than an American. Speaking from the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo during a musical event marking the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi, the Chicago born pontiff highlighted his appreciation for American principles of freedom and opportunity. He also noted that the United States has historically invited people from around the world to be part of its society.

During the interview, Pope Leo XIV revealed that his maternal ancestors included both slaves and slave owners. Detailed genealogical research cited by La Nacion indicates that his roots extend across several countries, including Haiti and France, and that at least 17 of his ancestors were of African descent. This personal history aligns with themes in his encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, in which he asked for forgiveness for the role of the Holy See in legitimizing slavery.

Regarding current events, the Pope has criticized restrictive immigration policies as inhuman and previously visited Lampedusa on July 4 to urge the protection of vulnerable migrants. While he has not yet scheduled a trip to the United States, he expressed hope to visit soon. Pope Leo XIV also holds Peruvian nationality, having spent a significant portion of his priestly life serving as a missionary in Peru.