Pope Leo XIV made a significant announcement on Sunday by declaring himself a Roman in a ceremonial act aimed at formalizing his role as the Bishop of Rome. This title is one among many that the pope holds, reflecting the deep historical and spiritual connection between the papacy and the city of Rome.
On his journey to the St. John Lateran Basilica for the final steps to assume his role as the Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV made a notable stop at Piazza Venezia. There, he met with the city’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri. In his address to the crowd, Gualtieri expressed the city's readiness to support the pontiff in establishing a new political paradigm. He concluded his speech with a warm welcome, stating, “We are happy that Rome is now your city,” as reported by Vatican News.
In response to the mayor's remarks, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed his commitment to his role as Bishop of Rome. He stated, “Today I can say in a special way that I am a Roman, with and for you,” which encapsulates his dedication to the people of Rome, as translated by the Vatican news service.
Margaret Susan Thompson, a history professor at Syracuse University, whose research specializes in the intersection of religion and politics, offered insights into the implications of Pope Leo XIV’s declaration. She noted that the pope is unlikely to be heavily involved in the daily governance or administrative duties typically associated with the role of Bishop of Rome. These responsibilities are usually delegated to an auxiliary or assistant bishop, known as a vicar.
Regarding the pope’s declaration of being a Roman, Thompson emphasized that it is primarily a symbolic gesture. It does not signify a rejection of his U.S. or Peruvian citizenship. Born in Chicago and having spent two decades in Peru, where he obtained citizenship, the pope's statement reflects his profound pastoral responsibility to the people of Rome. As Thompson told NPR, “The statement speaks to his particular sense of pastoral responsibility to the people of Rome.”
It's noteworthy that while Pope Leo XIV is the first pope from the United States, the last three popes before him were not Italian, highlighting an ongoing evolution in the heritage of the papacy. Thompson pointed out that this declaration is not a governing statement but rather an important symbolic and pastoral affirmation of his commitment to the city and its people.
