Pope Leo: I think of myself more as the pope who happens to be American

Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, stated in a recent interview with NBC that he does not define himself primarily by his American identity. While the Chicago-born leader expressed a "great love" for the United States and its values, he characterized his role as being the pope who happens to be American rather than an American pope. The remarks were made Wednesday night on the sidelines of a musical prayer event in Rome.

During the discussion, the Pope also addressed the prospect of a future visit to his home country. Although he expressed a desire to travel to the United States, he clarified that no official trip has been scheduled at this time.