Kevin Workman, a 65‑year‑old human resources manager from New Haven, Indiana, has turned a lifelong hobby into a papal tribute. Seven years ago he began carving rosaries as a personal project, and today his handiwork has reached the Vatican in a story that blends faith, family and baseball.
A devout Catholic since 1981, Workman is the father of eight and grandfather to 19. His rosaries, initially made for friends and relatives, evolved into a small online venture. The breakthrough came when the nonprofit Catholic Athletes for Christ approached him to design a Chicago White Sox‑themed rosary for the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.
From Hobbyist to Holy Messenger
The resulting rosary features the team’s signature colors and logo, a nod to the pontiff’s known affection for the franchise. Former White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski, who was part of the 2005 championship squad, took charge of delivering the gift. Alongside the rosary, Pierzynski presented a baseball from the final out of Game 1 of that World Series, a piece of history that the pope had witnessed as a young fan.
Pope Leo XIV, born Father Robert Prevost, had followed the White Sox’s 2005 triumph closely and was reportedly delighted to receive the memorabilia. Pierzynski recounted the pontiff’s excitement, noting that the pope’s familiarity with the team’s recent successes added a personal touch to the exchange.
An Emotional Reception
When Workman learned that his rosary had made the journey to the Vatican, he was overcome with emotion. He now hopes for a photograph of Pope Leo XIV holding the rosary, a keepsake that would symbolize the convergence of his family’s faith, his Midwestern roots, and the enduring spirit of the game he loves.