Pope Leo XIV Suggests American Roots May Draw People Back to Church

Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected head of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pontiff born in the United States, suggested during a brief interview with NBC News that his American background may help draw people back to the Church.

In an unexpected moment during a major news conference for the global press at the Vatican, NBC Nightly News anchor Lester Holt spoke directly with the pontiff. The encounter came after the pope addressed more than 6,000 journalists on Monday in his first formal media appearance since his election last week.

Pope Leo shared an anecdote suggesting that people may be returning to the Church in part because of his American origins. The comment hinted at the symbolic resonance his background may have with Catholics in the U.S. and around the world.

The 69-year-old pontiff, born in Chicago, is not expected to return to his hometown soon. When asked about a possible visit, he simply responded, “I don’t think so,” citing pressing responsibilities at the Vatican.

Experts say that the new pope, a member of the Augustinian order and known for his progressive views, is focusing on internal Church reforms and global diplomacy before turning to travel.

During Monday’s address, Pope Leo made a strong appeal for press freedom and expressed support for journalists imprisoned around the world. He called free speech and a free press “precious gifts” that must be protected. The statement earned praise from media organizations and human rights groups.

For Holt, the impromptu exchange with the pontiff was a career-defining moment. “It was a highlight-of-the-career type moment for me,” he said.