Pope Leo XIV delivered his first address to Americans via video from the Vatican during a Mass at White Sox Park in Chicago, calling on youth to be “beacons of hope” in a nation grappling with division.
At a Glance
- Pope Leo XIV’s first U.S. remarks were delivered via video at a Jubilee Mass at White Sox Park
- He encouraged young people to build community and serve others as part of their faith
- The event featured patriotic and Peruvian music, reflecting the pope’s heritage and mission work
- His brother confirmed Leo’s lifelong fandom of the Chicago White Sox, not the Cubs
- Cardinal Cupich said plans are underway to invite the pope to throw a first pitch at a future game
Pontiff’s Message Echoes From the South Side
Born Robert Prevost in Dolton, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV used the Mass to reconnect with his Chicago roots, offering a personal message of encouragement to young Americans. The crowd at Guaranteed Rate Field cheered as Leo urged “service through love” and framed hope as a sacred obligation in troubled times.
The Mass, hosted by the Archdiocese of Chicago as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope, included a performance from the Leo Catholic High School choir and anthems honoring both his American and Peruvian identities.
Watch a report: Pope Leo Sends Message of Hope to Chicago and the U.S.
The Sox-Loving Pope
Amid speculation over which local team he supported, Leo’s brother publicly clarified the pope’s allegiance to the White Sox, a point of pride celebrated with Sox gear mailed directly to the Vatican. Fans in attendance welcomed the moment as a unifying gesture during a politically tense summer.
Cardinal Blase Cupich closed the Mass by revealing efforts to arrange for Pope Leo to throw out a ceremonial first pitch at a future White Sox game—further strengthening the link between civic pride and spiritual leadership.
Hope in Divided Times
As civic unrest and political polarization weigh on American society, Pope Leo’s message of solidarity and service landed with renewed urgency. By tying together themes of faith, family, and Chicago pride, his address framed community resilience as a sacred call to action.
This appearance offered more than symbolism—it grounded a global figure’s mission in local heritage, at a moment when Americans seem desperate for common ground.
