In a rare and powerful conversation, NBC anchor Lester Holt sat down with Pope Leo for an exclusive interview at the Vatican, offering a window into the thoughts of one of the world’s most influential religious leaders.
Pope Leo, the newly elected pontiff whose modern leadership style and focus on global justice have drawn international attention, spoke candidly about his vision for the Catholic Church in the 21st century. The interview covered a wide range of issues—from climate change and poverty to artificial intelligence and the future of faith in a divided world.
“We must not retreat from the world,” Pope Leo told Holt. “We must engage it—with humility, with truth, and above all, with compassion.”
One of the most striking moments came when the Pope addressed the role of the Church in mediating global conflicts. He emphasized diplomacy, human dignity, and moral leadership, noting the Vatican’s behind-the-scenes efforts to support peace talks in several war-torn regions.
Pope Leo also discussed internal Church reforms, including greater transparency around financial matters and continued progress on rooting out abuse. He acknowledged past failures while expressing hope for lasting cultural change within the institution.
The conversation marked the first time Pope Leo has given a sit-down interview with a major American news outlet. Holt, known for his calm, incisive interviewing style, later said the dialogue was “one of the most thoughtful and spiritually grounded” of his career.
The interview is expected to air in full this Sunday on NBC Nightly News, followed by a special segment on Dateline exploring the Pope’s background and his rapidly growing influence both inside and outside the Church.
