Pope Leo XIV, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, shares his thoughts in an exclusive interview with NBC News. Speaking with Tom Llamas, he expresses deep affection for the United States while reaffirming his commitment to serving the global Catholic community. He acknowledges the challenges facing the Church in the West, including declining attendance and the lasting impact of clerical abuse, emphasizing the need for healing and transparency. His American background, he says, gives him insight into both the strengths and struggles within U.S. Catholicism.
The pontiff also highlights the importance of dialogue across faiths and reflects on balancing progressive views on social matters with adherence to core doctrine. His papacy is viewed as a unifying force between tradition and modernity. The full interview will be broadcast on 'Nightly News,' offering viewers a personal perspective on a leader shaping global religious discourse.