When Pope Leo XIV stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the world saw a pontiff whose interests extended far beyond theology. A lifelong Chicago White Sox fan, he still carries memories of a summer night in 2005 when he watched the White Sox clinch their first World Series in nearly a century.
A lifelong White Sox devotion
Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, he followed the team through every inning, memorizing the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd. Years later, as Father Robert Prevost, he attended the opening game of the 2005 World Series, cheering alongside fellow fans as the White Sox took the field.
Gifts that bridge the diamond and the Vatican
Since his election last May, the Vatican has received a stream of sports‑related tokens. A pinstriped No. 14 jersey signed by Hall of Famer Paul Konerko now hangs in his private quarters, while a bat once owned by Hall of Famer Nellie Fox rests on a shelf nearby. A custom Chicago Bears jersey arrived courtesy of Vice President JD Vance, and a Bulls jersey bearing the name “Pope Leo” was presented by longtime broadcaster Chuck Swirsky.
A tribute in the making
The White Sox have announced that they will honor the pontiff at an August 11 game against the Cincinnati Reds. The ceremony will feature a special on‑field presentation, and the team plans to display a commemorative banner that reads “Welcome, Pope Leo XIV.” Fans can expect a blend of spiritual reflection and baseball tradition as the crowd celebrates the unique connection between the Vatican and Chicago’s baseball heritage.
The story of Pope Leo XIV’s affection for Chicago’s teams is more than a curiosity; it reflects a broader cultural bridge that spans continents and faiths. Whether he is watching a game from the stands or receiving a signed jersey, the pontiff’s love for the sport adds a human dimension to his public persona, reminding the world that even the highest office can share in the simple joys of a summer baseball game.