‘I am Roman,’ Pope Leo says, as he becomes the bishop of Rome

On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV declared himself a Roman in a ceremonial step to formalize his role as bishop of Rome. The title, though largely symbolic, emphasizes his pastoral commitment to the people of Rome. While the pope is the first from the U.S. and holds Peruvian citizenship, the statement does not negate his other national ties. Speaking at Piazza Venezia with Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, Leo affirmed his dedication to the city, saying, “Today I can say in a special way that I am a Roman, with and for you.” Expert Margaret Susan Thompson clarified that the pope won’t handle Rome’s day‑to‑day governance, as those responsibilities fall to a vicar, NPR has reported. The declaration, she said, highlights his spiritual role rather than political authority.