LAMPEDUSA, Italy — Pope Leo XIV used his July 4 visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa to deliver a powerful message on immigration, urging Americans and world leaders to welcome migrants with compassion, generosity and respect for human dignity.
The first American-born pontiff arrived on the Mediterranean island, one of Europe’s main entry points for migrants fleeing conflict, poverty and persecution, where he paid tribute to the thousands who have died or gone missing attempting the dangerous sea crossing.
Leo began his visit at the Door to Europe, a memorial honoring migrants who lost their lives in the Mediterranean. Standing quietly before the monument and gazing across the sea, a strong breeze briefly swept away his white zucchetto as he paused in reflection.
Shortly after arriving, the Vatican released a letter marking the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence. In it, Pope Leo emphasized that protecting human life includes “welcoming, protecting and assisting immigrants,” noting that their “hopes, sacrifices and contribution” have long been woven into the history of the United States.
“In every generation, those who have arrived seeking freedom, opportunity and a place to belong have helped to shape the nation’s character,” the pope wrote.
“To receive them with compassion and generosity is not only an act of charity, but also a recognition of the dignity that belongs to every human person.”
Two prominent leaders in the U.S. Catholic Church told CNN that the pope’s decision to spend Independence Day in Lampedusa carries a symbolic message about the ongoing debate over immigration in the United States.
During an open-air Mass attended by cheering crowds waving flags and singing, the Chicago-born pope called on people to help build “a more human world” through acts of solidarity and compassion.
In his homily, Leo urged European governments to adopt policies focused on “receiving, protecting, supporting and integrating migrants,” while also investing in developing nations so that “no one is forced to emigrate.”
“This is a task not only for public institutions but also for civil society as a whole and for the Church,” he said.
One of the most emotional moments of the visit came through a letter from a young migrant whose journey began in Lampedusa a decade ago.
“I’m super excited to meet you! Ten years ago my story began here in Lampedusa. I was alone and had lost everything, above all my mom. They say I stopped crying only when they gave me a ball. From that day the ball stayed in my heart and I never stopped playing,” the letter read.
“I really hope this ball I’m giving you now can reach another child and make them happy just like it did me.”
The pope’s visit echoes the Church’s longstanding call for greater compassion toward migrants and refugees, placing renewed focus on one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.
Credit:CNN
