Pope Leo XIV sent a brief message to the graduating class of Villanova University near Philadelphia, which was his alma mater as well. The president of Villanova read the message to the graduates at Commencement on May 19, noting that the Pope was “an alumnus who once sat where you are sitting now, as a proud graduate of the Class of 1977.”
“The world beyond Villanova is waiting for you,” the Pope’s message read, “sometimes with open arms, and sometimes with truly dangerous intent. You will have the challenge and the opportunity to make a big difference, if you carry with you those Augustinian values of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas.
“This being the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, I would invite you to recall in a special way the guiding principles of the foundations of our nation: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all [people] are created equal; that they are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, and among those are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’
“May the graduates of 2026 always be faithful to the guiding light that has been so important for these 250 years. Congratulations, and please know that I send all of you my apostolic blessing.”
On July 3, the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia will award its 38th annual Liberty Medal to Pope Leo XIV, who will be present by Zoom connection to receive it. The event will take place on Independence Mall in Philadelphia as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
