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Pope Leo XIV shared a moving message of hope for young people during a special event held June 14 at Chicago's White Sox Stadium.
Through a pre-recorded video, ChicagoChicago with origins from Chicago highlighted the healing power of faith and community, and invited people to find purpose in God and in serving others.
Faith and Baseball in One Place
The event was a unique fusion of Catholicism and Chicago baseball culture. The ceremony began with the playing of the national anthems of the United States and Peru, in recognition of Leo's dual citizenship and his decades of pastoral service in Latin America.
Following the historic announcement by an American pope, archival footage of him cheering on the White Sox during the 2005 World Series went viral. In honor of his fans and roots, the White Sox unveiled a mural in Section 140, commemorating his presence at that game and his passion for the team.
During the event, the stands were packed with fans, nuns, parishioners, and even supporters of the rival Cubs. Many wore T-shirts and caps with the slogan "Da Pope," a tribute to the city's enthusiasm for its Chicago-born pope.
A Message of Hope for Youth
That Saturday, Pope Leo XIV addressed young Americans from the Vatican.
His speech focused on inspiring hope in the younger generations facing challenges such as anxiety and depression. He invited young people to transform their inner restlessness into a quest for faith and personal growth, reminding them that even moments of loneliness or sadness can become opportunities for spiritual renewal.
Pope Leo XIV also highlighted the healing power of God's love, especially in the context of the Jubilee Year of Hope, declared by his predecessor, Pope Francis. He also encouraged young people to turn to their local parishes for support, reminding them that community and faith are sources of strength and comfort.
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