Chicago is brimming with pride and excitement following the historic election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. With deep ties to the Windy City and its suburbs, the “Chicago pope” has already inspired waves of humor, celebration, and creativity in his hometown.
From his childhood memories in Dolton to his reputation as an international bridge-builder, Pope Leo XIV’s story resonates deeply with Chicagoans. As the city finds unique ways to pay homage to its native son, his rise to the papacy is being met with both local pride and a recognition of his global significance.
A Chicago-Born Pope: From Altar Boy to Pontiff
Pope Leo XIV, born in 1955 at Mercy Hospital in Chicago and raised in Dolton, has long been a part of the fabric of the city’s communities. As an altar boy at St. Mary of the Assumption parish, he was remembered as kind-hearted and compassionate—early signs of qualities that would later define his leadership within the Catholic Church.
While his path to the Vatican took him far from Illinois, the city has proudly embraced him as one of its own. It’s not every day that a Chicago native becomes pope, and locals are eager to celebrate this remarkable milestone.
In a city divided by baseball loyalties, Italian beef orders, and pizza preferences, Pope Leo XIV provides a rare moment of unity. Some playful debates continue to emerge.
The Cardinal’s Love for Chicago Staples
One of the lighter moments in Chicago’s celebration revolves around Aurelio’s Pizza, the iconic pizzeria based in Homewood. Last August, Cardinal Prevost made headlines for dining at the restaurant, prompting an unexpected surge in media calls and customer interest.
Joe Aurelio, the pizzeria’s owner, is using the occasion to introduce the new “Poperoni” pizza and has even named a table in honor of the newly minted pope. For a city known for its deep connection to food, this celebration of a local institution adds a personal touch to the global announcement.
The culinary tributes don’t stop there. Portillo’s, a beloved Chicago chain, has debuted “The Leo,” an Italian beef sandwich inspired by Pope Leo XIV.
On the flipside, famed hot dog stand Wieners Circle playfully joined the revelry with a Latin sign humorously speculating about the pope enjoying one of their hot dogs. These gestures showcase the city’s signature blend of pride and humor, making the celebration distinctively Chicagoan.
Sports Allegiances: White Sox vs. Cubs
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Chicago celebration without a friendly sports rivalry making its way to the forefront. When news of Pope Leo XIV’s election broke, locals began to speculate about his baseball allegiance.
As fans argued over whether he was loyal to the White Sox or the Cubs, his brother confirmed that Prevost is, in fact, a lifelong White Sox supporter. The White Sox organization wasted no time, sending a team jersey and hat to the pope in Rome.
Meanwhile, both Wrigley Field and Rate Field updated their marquees to reflect their rivalry and congratulate Chicago’s newest global figure. The city may be divided in its loyalties, but for now, everyone is united in celebrating their “Chicago pope.”
A Global Leader with Hometown Roots
While Chicagoans are understandably focused on Pope Leo XIV’s ties to their city, his election is also a significant moment for the global Catholic Church. Known for his years of work in Peru and his reputation as a thoughtful leader who builds bridges between cultures, Pope Leo XIV brings an international perspective to the papacy.
As the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV symbolizes a historic shift, not only for Chicago but for the Church as a whole. His hometown is buzzing with excitement, but the ripple effects of his election are being felt far beyond the city limits.
Chicago’s Unique Celebration of the Papacy
From social media memes to themed merchandise, Chicagoans have turned the pope’s election into a celebration infused with humor and affection. Whether it’s customized pizza names, tongue-in-cheek signage, or heartfelt tributes, the city is showcasing its creativity and pride in a way that’s unmistakably Chicago.
Pope Leo XIV’s election is providing a much-needed sense of unity for a city that knows how to honor its roots while keeping its eyes on the bigger picture. Chicago has always been a city of resilience and community.
Pope Leo XIV’s story feels like one of their own—a local boy whose compassion and leadership have taken him to the world stage.
Here is the source article for this story: Chicago loudly and proudly claims homegrown Pope Leo XIV — and the ‘Pope’s Pizza’ at Aurelio’s
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