CHICAGO — The Archdiocese of Chicago is preparing for a landmark celebration this Saturday, June 14, as thousands are expected to gather at Rate Field for a public mass honoring Pope Leo XIV, the first Chicago-born pope.
Titled “Chicago Celebrates Pope Leo XIV,” the event is being hailed as a once-in-a-lifetime celebration and will be held at the home of the Chicago White Sox, marking an extraordinary intersection of faith, sports culture, and civic pride.
A Historic Mass for a Historic Pope
Organized by the Archdiocese of Chicago, the event is expected to draw attendees from across the city and beyond, celebrating the hometown roots of Pope Leo XIV, whose rise to the papacy has been met with widespread enthusiasm among local communities.
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Cardinal Blase Cupich is scheduled to lead the Mass as the principal celebrant.
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The ceremony will also include prayers, live music, and a special video message from Pope Leo XIV himself, addressed directly to “the young people of the world,” according to an official event flyer.
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Chicago Bulls announcer Chuck Swirsky will serve as emcee for the afternoon’s proceedings.
Event Schedule and Details
The full schedule for Saturday’s gathering at Rate Field is as follows:
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Gates open: 12:30 p.m. CT
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Program begins: 2:30 p.m. CT
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Mass begins: 4:00 p.m. CT
The stadium celebration represents more than just a religious event. Organizers say it’s meant to honor Chicago’s global cultural impact and the spiritual legacy of its communities.
Can’t Attend in Person? Here’s How to Watch
For those unable to attend in person, NBC Chicago and Telemundo Chicago will offer live coverage starting at 2:30 p.m. CT. The event will be broadcast in its entirety on:
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NBC Chicago’s website
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NBC Chicago app
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NBC Chicago 24/7 streaming channel
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Peacock, Roku, Samsung, and Xumo platforms
You can also watch the live stream directly via this link.
Papal White Sox Fandom Adds Chicago Flavor
One unexpected highlight? Pope Leo XIV’s open embrace of his hometown team. The pontiff has previously expressed his affection for the Chicago White Sox, even donning team apparel in public appearances, according to NBC Chicago.
This detail, while lighthearted, reinforces the local pride embedded in Saturday’s event — a Chicago moment through and through.
A “Once-in-a-Lifetime” Gathering for the Faithful
Organizers emphasize that the event is designed to unite people from all backgrounds in celebration of a pope who shares the city’s cultural DNA.
“This mass is about celebrating hope, unity, and the incredible journey of a Chicagoan who now leads the global Catholic Church,” said a spokesperson from the Archdiocese.
The event is free and open to the public, with a large turnout expected. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and use public transportation due to anticipated traffic delays around the stadium.
Are you planning to attend the Pope Leo XIV mass at Rate Field? Do you believe events like this strengthen the city’s cultural identity? Share your thoughts in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com or tag us in your photos from the event.
