Pope Leo XIV marks U.S. Independence Day with ambassador, urges peace and migrant rights

On July 4, Pope Leo XIV celebrated America’s Independence Day at the residence of U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch in Rome. The evening featured a flag‑shaped dessert, a livestreamed Liberty Medal presentation and a gathering of cardinals who enjoyed American‑themed foods such as corndogs. The celebration coincided with the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.

In his remarks, Pope Leo praised the United States as a symbol of freedom, crediting migrants for embodying that spirit, and called on Washington to promote peace both at home and abroad. He also highlighted the migrant gateway island of Lampedusa, underscoring the Vatican’s concern over the ongoing migration crisis.