CHICAGO — Tens of thousands gathered at Rate Field on Saturday, June 14, for a citywide celebration honoring Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff and a native son of Chicago. The highlight of the evening was an eight-minute video message from the pope, who encouraged attendees to become “a light of hope” for the world.
“As you gather today in this great celebration, I want to both express my gratitude to you, and also an encouragement to continue to build up community, friendship… in your families, in your parishes, in the Archdiocese, and throughout our world,” Pope Leo said in his message.
The pope also addressed young people directly, calling them “the promise of hope” and adding, “The world looks to you… and says, ‘we need you.’”
Faith, Music, and Community at the Heart of the Celebration
The celebration was emceed by Chicago Bulls announcer Chuck Swirsky and concluded with a Catholic Mass led by Cardinal Blase Cupich, who referred to the event’s spiritual significance as “the sermon on the mound.”
Organizers estimated over 30,000 attendees purchased tickets to the event, which included:
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Performances by the Leo High School choir
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Video interviews with the pope’s former classmate and professor
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Faith reflections from community members
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A commemorative mural and a full-size pope cutout displayed near his historic 2005 World Series seat
“I think the fact that he’s reaching out to the youth across the world really hit home,” said attendee Chris Poindexter, as quoted in CBS News Chicago’s event coverage.
White Sox Tribute and Future First Pitch Invitation
Pope Leo XIV — a longtime White Sox fan — was famously present at Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, and even received a White Sox cap from Vatican visitors earlier this week.
During Saturday’s event, the Chicago White Sox extended an official invitation for the pope to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a future game. Fans gathered near the location of his original 2005 seat, which now features a newly unveiled mural in his honor.
“They whipped it up in record speed. Everything is just so gorgeous,” said Collin Patton, who traveled from northern Minnesota to attend.
Were you part of the Pope Leo XIV celebration at Rate Field?
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