What's happened
The Chicago White Sox unveiled a graphic installation at Rate Field honoring Pope Leo XIV, who is a fan of the team. The artwork commemorates his attendance at the 2005 World Series opener, where he cheered for the Sox. The team has embraced their connection to the new pontiff since his election on May 8, 2025.
What's behind the headline?
Cultural Significance
- The installation at Rate Field not only celebrates the new pope but also highlights the cultural intersection of sports and religion in America.
- The White Sox's embrace of Pope Leo XIV reflects a broader trend of sports teams connecting with local communities and figures.
Community Engagement
- Fans dressing as the pope at games indicates a unique way of engaging with both the team and the papacy, fostering a sense of community.
- The White Sox's efforts to send memorabilia to the Vatican show a commitment to building a relationship with the new pontiff.
Future Implications
- This connection may lead to increased attendance and fan engagement as the team capitalizes on this unique narrative.
- The White Sox could leverage this moment to revitalize their brand and improve their standing in a challenging season.
What the papers say
According to AP News, the White Sox's graphic installation features a waving Pope Leo XIV and commemorates his attendance at the 2005 World Series opener. Brooks Boyer, the team's chief executive, stated, "When people come into the ballpark, it’s an interesting piece of our history." The Independent echoed this sentiment, noting that the artwork marks a significant moment in both sports and religious history. The NY Post highlighted the initial confusion about the pope's fandom, clarifying that he has always been a White Sox supporter, as confirmed by his brother, John Prevost. This narrative has been embraced by fans, with some dressing as the pope during games, showcasing the unique blend of sports culture and religious identity.
How we got here
Robert Prevost, elected as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, is the first pope from the U.S. His Chicago roots and fandom for the White Sox are celebrated by the team, which has struggled in recent seasons.
Go deeper
- What does the graphic installation look like?
- How have fans reacted to the pope's election?
- What other connections does the White Sox have with the community?
Common question
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What Does Pope Leo XIV's Election Mean for the Catholic Church?
The election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, being the first pope from the United States. This unprecedented event raises questions about its implications for the Church and its followers, particularly in the U.S. and Chicago, where his roots are celebrated. Below, we explore the impact of his election and the reactions from various communities.
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What is the Connection Between Pope Leo XIV and the Chicago White Sox?
Pope Leo XIV, elected on May 8, 2025, has a unique connection to the Chicago White Sox that has captured the attention of fans and media alike. This page explores the significance of this relationship, how the team has honored the new pontiff, and the intertwining of sports and religion in this context.
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