Pope to appear virtually for 250th anniversary of US independence

The Hill
by Ashleigh Fields
March 16, 2026
3 min read

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Pope will appear virtually for US 250th anniversary after declining Trump's July 4th invitation.

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Pope Leo XIV will appear virtually to receive the 38th annual Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center during America's 250th independence anniversary celebration. The pontiff declined an invitation from the Trump administration to participate in Fourth of July festivities, choosing instead to engage with the Philadelphia-based constitutional organization's event. The virtual appearance represents a significant papal involvement in America's semiquicentennial milestone, though his rejection of the White House invitation signals a measured distance from official government celebrations. The Liberty Medal recognizes individuals who have furthered the cause of liberty and freedom, with previous recipients including world leaders and human rights advocates. The pope's participation will likely draw global attention to America's founding principles during this historic anniversary year.

What's Being Done

The Pope will receive the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center during the virtual appearance.

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