Remarks of Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez at News Conference Announcing that Pope Leo XIV Will Receive the 2026 Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center
Along with the entire Catholic Church in the Philadelphia region, I am deeply grateful and joyful to learn that Pope Leo XIV will be the recipient of the Liberty Medal as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday!
It is a fitting recognition of the Holy Father’s long dedication and fidelity to advancing liberty for all people throughout the world. In many ways, his tireless work as a priest, bishop, Cardinal, and now Shepherd of the Universal Church has focused on lifting up the dignity of all people and building pathways to peace.
I know we have a lot of local pride to have the first pope from the United States of America and a graduate of Villanova University.
Pope Leo’s influence, however, extends far beyond Philly. While shepherd of 1 billion Catholics globally, he is also a leader on the world stage and all people can benefit from his wisdom. I have had the pleasure of working and conversing with the Holy Father on a number of initiatives over the years. I can tell you from personal experience that he is a wonderful, gentle, humble, and spiritual man of God who is a true gift to everyone.
