Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church, will deliver his inaugural address to U.S. audiences this Saturday in a special video message broadcast live from Chicago’s Guaranteed Rate Field, the iconic home of the White Sox.
This highly anticipated appearance marks the pontiff’s first direct communication with Americans since his historic election to the papacy in May 2025. Born Robert Francis Prevost on Chicago’s South Side and raised in the nearby suburb of Dolton, Pope Leo’s local ties run deep, choosing a venue as a heartfelt nod to his origins and personal passions.
A Hometown Tribute
According to the Archdiocese of Chicago, the event will be a “celebration of unity, pride, and purpose,” bringing together thousands at the South Side ballpark. Cardinal Blaise Cupich is scheduled to lead a Catholic Mass following the pope’s address. The entire ceremony will be live-streamed on YouTube, giving global audiences access to the historic moment.
“Pope Leo’s message of peace, unity, and the key to a meaningful life has resonated deeply around the globe,” said the Archdiocese in an official statement. “This celebration offers a unique opportunity for the people from Chicago and beyond to come together in shared pride for one of our own.”
A Spiritual Leader — and a Sports Fan
Beyond his clerical accomplishments, Pope Leo XIV has become something of a cultural figure thanks to his unabashed fandom for the Chicago White Sox. His brother, John Prevost — a former Catholic school principal and lifelong South Sider — confirmed that the newly elected pontiff has long supported the team.
“Baseball has always been in his blood,” John told reporters shortly after the conclave. “He grew up cheering for the Sox. He was even caught on camera celebrating during Game 1 of the 2005 World Series.”
The White Sox themselves have embraced the connection. On Wednesday, the team posted a photo on the social media platform X of the pope sporting a Sox hat during his general audience at the Vatican. “Representing his favorite squad,” read the caption.
White Sox Manager Will Venable reacted warmly to the support. “It’s great. I love the support. Need it,” he said. Rookie pitcher Grant Taylor also commented on the pope’s visibility. “Baseball is growing globally, but it’s still small in Europe. If the pope’s over in the Vatican wearing Sox gear, maybe we’ll gain some fans over there,” he said.
To honor their most famous fan, the team plans to unveil a permanent graphic installation at the stadium, near the spot where Pope Leo sat during that legendary 2005 game.
The Pope’s Journey from Bronzeville to the Vatican
Ordained in 1981 and a member of the Order of Saint Augustine, Pope Leo XIV spent decades in service to the Church before ascending to its highest office. His election marked a significant shift in the global Catholic community, with many praising his inclusive worldview, American background, and commitment to youth outreach.
Saturday’s video message will be specifically directed toward young people across the world — a demographic Pope Leo has repeatedly emphasized as central to the Church’s future. Church officials expect the message to touch on faith, purpose, and global unity at a time of deep division and uncertainty.
Why This Event Matters
For Catholics — and Chicagoans — this event is more than just a religious ceremony. It’s a poignant homecoming for a native son who rose to global prominence while never forgetting his roots. Pope Leo’s dual identity as both a spiritual leader and a relatable, hometown figure is helping reshape the image of the papacy in the 21st century.
In a city known for its grit, diversity, and fierce sports loyalty, the pope’s address at Rate Field represents a merging of faith, fandom, and community. It’s expected to draw large crowds and possibly set the tone for more frequent virtual papal engagements in the digital age.
What’s Next
Following Saturday’s event, Vatican officials hinted that Pope Leo XIV plans to schedule more direct engagements with American audiences, especially through digital channels. His emphasis on outreach and modern communication tools suggests a future papacy that is more connected, accessible, and relatable to everyday Catholics.
The White Sox, meanwhile, are leaning into the moment. Rumors of “Pope merch” — including limited-edition hats and jerseys — have begun circulating among fans and retailers alike. But for now, the real focus is on Saturday’s message — and the growing sense that Chicago has never been closer to the Vatican.
What is happening, and why is it important?
Pope Leo XIV will deliver his first message to the U.S. from Chicago via video at a public event held at Guaranteed Rate Field, emphasizing peace, youth, and unity. The moment is historically significant as he is the first American pope, born and raised in the city, and has strong local and cultural ties, including being a lifelong White Sox fan. The event merges faith, sports, and civic pride, and reflects the pope’s commitment to connecting with everyday people, especially youth, in meaningful, modern ways.
