Pope Francis: 'I am a son of this great nation shaped by immigrants'

Pope Francis, participating remotely from Philadelphia, reflected on the United States as a nation profoundly shaped by immigrants. Speaking ahead of the country's 250th anniversary of independence, he highlighted the enduring commitment to the founders' vision of America as a symbol of liberty.

The pontiff noted that successive waves of immigrants have contributed to shaping the nation's future. He stated that this "love for freedom" has inspired the United States, even during its most challenging historical periods. His remarks were made as he received the Medal of Freedom, a significant honor acknowledging his contributions and connection to the nation's ideals.

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For the past two hundred and fifty years, for so many populations around the world, the determination to realize the noble vision of the founding fathers to make America synonymous with freedom has been unwavering, as the country opened its doors to successive waves of immigrants, allowing them and their children to help shape the nation's future. It was this same love for freedom that inspired the United States, in the darkest hours of the last century.

Connected virtually to the National Constitution Center, Pope Francis expressed his personal connection to the U.S., referring to himself as "a son of this great nation." He invoked the courage of the nation's founders, who he said dreamed of freedom and a better life for their families. He joined Americans in a call for God's blessing upon the nation's future.

Looking ahead, the Pope prayed that the "high ideals" enshrined in the Declaration of Independence would continue to guide America toward unity, justice, and peace, ensuring its continued prosperity. His message underscored the importance of immigration and the foundational principles of liberty in the American narrative.

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As a son of this great nation, founded by courageous men and women who dreamed of freedom and a better life for themselves and their children, I join you in asking for God's blessing on America's future, so that the high ideals enshrined at the beginning of the Declaration of Independence may continue to guide the nation's prosperity in unity, justice, and peace.