What does Pope Leo XIV consider his primary mission?

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Pope Leo XIV Considers His Primary Mission as Pastor of a Universal Church

Pope Leo XIV views his principal role as serving as the pastor of a universal church, a position he believes grants him a global platform to address people worldwide. This perspective shapes his identity, leading him to identify more as the "pope who happens to be American" rather than defining himself solely by his nationality. His upbringing and extensive missionary work have significantly influenced his outlook on global issues and his approach to his pontificate.
Global Pastoral Role Over National Identity

While Pope Leo XIV expresses "great love" for the United States and its foundational principles, such as freedom and opportunity, he emphasizes that his primary mission transcends national boundaries. He articulated that his role as pastor of a universal church provides him with a unique voice and the chance to engage with individuals across the globe. This universal focus, he indicated, is more central to his self-perception than his American identity, even though his heritage includes immigrant grandparents and a complex family history involving both enslaved people and slave owners.
Extensive Missionary Experience in Peru

Before ascending to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV dedicated nearly two decades to missionary work in Peru. This period provided him with firsthand experience of diverse communities and challenges faced by people in different parts of the world. Such extensive engagement in a foreign land likely deepened his understanding of global interdependencies and reinforced his commitment to serving a universal flock, rather than focusing on a single national constituency.
Advocacy for Migrants and Immigrants

Consistent with his role as a global pastor, Pope Leo XIV has been an outspoken advocate for migrants and immigrants. He has publicly criticized policies he deems "inhuman," specifically referencing the Trump administration's treatment of immigrants in the United States. His commitment to this cause was underscored by his visit to Lampedusa, a key European entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean, where he urged for tolerance and protection for vulnerable individuals.

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What does Pope Leo XIV consider his primary mission?

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