Pope celebrates Fourth of July at U.S. ambassador's residence

Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, marked the nation's 250th anniversary of independence by celebrating the Fourth of July at the U.S. ambassador's residence to the Holy See. Ambassador Brian Burch hosted the event on Saturday evening.

The Vatican's press office confirmed the Pope's attendance, stating he accepted the ambassador's invitation. The U.S. Embassy to the Holy See shared on X that Pope Leo XIV celebrated with Ambassador Burch and his family, receiving gifts including a U.S. World Cup soccer jersey, a commemorative "Freedom 250" baseball, and a homemade apple pie. The Pope reportedly pledged his support for his birth country during the World Cup.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, attended the celebration following a busy day that included a visit to Lampedusa, an island symbolizing the Mediterranean migrant crisis. Although he declined an official invitation from U.S. Vice President JD Vance to attend the main anniversary events in the United States, the Pope expressed his desire to commemorate the occasion.

In a formal letter to all Americans, the Pope reflected on collective responsibility and highlighted that "defending human life also includes welcoming, protecting, and assisting immigrants." He also participated via video message in the 38th Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony in Philadelphia, having previously received the award himself in Rome. This commemoration occurs amid notable tensions between the Vatican and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

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