Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the Jubilee of Choirs, in Saint Peter's Square, at the Vatican, November 23, 2025. REUTERS/Vincenzo Livieri

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) -Pope Leo, the first U.S. leader of the Catholic Church, said on Tuesday that Americans should focus on gratitude to God as they pass the turkey on the annual holiday of Thanksgiving this year.

Speaking to reporters in Castel Gandolfo, his residence outside Rome, the pope said he would encourage Americans to mark the feast, held this Thursday, by promoting peace and giving thanks to God.

"I would encourage all people, especially with this beautiful feast we have in the United States which unites all people … to say thank you to someone," said Leo. "To recognise that we all have received so many gifts."

Leo, originally from Chicago, is leaving on his first overseas trip on Thanksgiving Day.

(Reporting by Joshua McElwee; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)