Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Prevost, is the first pope from the U.S. and a native of Chicago. He has been a lifelong Chicago White Sox fan and attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series at Rate Field with family friends. His connection to the team and community is celebrated through events and a graphic installation at the White Sox stadium.

The 20th anniversary celebrations included the White Sox commemorating their championship with a special event involving Pope Leo XIV autographing jerseys for players like Paul Konerko, an art installation honoring the Pope at Rate Field, and a Mass with music, film, speakers, and prayers held at the White Sox ballpark by the Chicago Archdiocese.

Pope Leo XIV's fandom of the Chicago White Sox has made him appear as an 'everyday American,' enhancing his approachability and ability to connect with people beyond traditional religious contexts. This connection through baseball is seen as aiding his evangelistic outreach by uniting diverse groups via a shared love of the sport.

National Catholic Register

The graphic installation at Rate Field marks the specific location where Pope Leo XIV attended the 2005 World Series game and symbolizes his Chicago roots and the unifying power of baseball globally. It features a broadcast screenshot and honors his role as a local figure and White Sox fan, strengthening community ties.

The Archdiocese and the White Sox organized a Mass at Rate Field with music, film, speakers, and prayer. Additionally, White Sox players received autographed jerseys from Pope Leo XIV, and the team unveiled a graphic installation near his World Series seat to honor him, highlighting the community celebration of his election and message of peace.