Baseball and faith often go hand in hand for Chicagoans, especially for those who grew up rooting for the White Sox. The recent elevation of Pope Leo XIV—born and raised on the South Side—is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Chicago’s communities and the unique role that the White Sox have played in shaping his story.

From White Sox Fan to World Leader

Pope Leo XIV’s journey from Chicago’s South Side to the Vatican is remarkable. As detailed in CNN’s extensive profile, Leo XIV was not just a local altar boy. He was also a devoted White Sox fan, playing ball with kids in his neighborhood and sharing a love of Chicago’s iconic baseball team. His support for the White Sox became a point of pride for his family and friends. They fondly recall moments like watching games at Comiskey Park—the heart of White Sox territory.

Humble Beginnings and South Side Values

Growing up in Dolton, just south of Chicago, Pope Leo XIV (formerly Robert Francis Prevost) was steeped in the traditions of a close-knit, working-class community. According to USA TODAY, classmates and neighbors remember him as gentle, kind, and always striving for the good of others. He attended St. Mary of the Assumption school, where faith and values were woven into everyday activities—from school to White Sox games with friends.

One classmate even said, “The boy who played Little League. The boy who grew up following the Chicago White Sox. The boy some simply knew as Bobby had been elected as Pope Leo XIV.” These small but intimate details capture how being a White Sox fan was an authentic part of his upbringing.

A Leader Rooted in Community

A strong sense of loyalty and social justice, shaped by his Chicago roots, continues to guide Pope Leo XIV today. He has been celebrated for standing up for the disenfranchised. Many believe his dedication to the White Sox and to Chicago’s South Side instilled a sense of perseverance and humility that served him well in his pastoral roles, both locally and abroad.

His story, as reported by CNN and USA TODAY, is not only about religious advancement, but about never losing connection to home. Even as he rose through the ranks of the Church, he maintained daily calls with his brother and returned to Chicago when possible, reinforcing his family ties and love of White Sox baseball.

Chicago Celebrates Its Native Son

The election of an American, South Side-born pope sent a wave of joy through Chicago. Local parishes and even city officials, including Mayor Brandon Johnson, have celebrated the city’s unique ties to the Vatican. The pride of sharing a hometown—and a baseball team—has united Chicagoans across generations, proving that the White Sox spirit is alive and well, even in the halls of the Vatican.

For more on Pope Leo XIV’s rise and what his White Sox connection means to Chicago, explore these in-depth reports from CNN and USA TODAY.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of White Sox Loyalty

Pope Leo XIV’s story demonstrates that the bonds formed around baseball—the joy of cheering for the White Sox, the values fostered on Chicago’s South Side—can inspire the highest forms of leadership. As his papacy unfolds, his Chicago roots and White Sox loyalty continue to inspire millions, reflecting the resilient and hopeful spirit of the city itself.