MLB3 hours ago1 min read

Chicago White Sox receive papal blessing before playoff clash with Astros

Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and lifelong fan, has sent a letter of support and blessings to the Chicago White Sox ahead of their postseason opener.

The Shujaa deskKenyaPredictions

Divine support for the White Sox

The Chicago White Sox have received a special boost ahead of their playoff series against the Houston Astros. Pope Leo XIV sent a letter of support to the team chairman, Jerry Reinsdorf, wishing them well before Tuesday's game.

The Pope, who is a Chicago native, is a lifelong fan of the team. In his letter, he wrote that sport can truly become a school of life, where all can learn that abundance does not come from victory at any cost, but from sharing, from respecting others and from the joy of walking together. He said he hopes the team will continue to build bonds of friendship and peace.

A history of passion for the team

This is not the first time the Pope has shown his love for the White Sox. He actually watched the opening game of the 2005 World Series in Chicago, sitting in Section 140. During that game, the White Sox beat the Astros 5-3 and went on to win the title.

He has broken Vatican protocol before by wearing a White Sox cap in 2025. He also gave a thumbs up to a fan who shouted a blessing for the team. The White Sox even have a special artwork installation near his old stadium seat to honor him.

The Pope's letter was a reply to a team promotion in August. Fans received hats shaped like the Pope's miter with the team logo. Father Tom McCarthy, a Chicago native, gave one of these hats to the Pope, who expressed his gratitude for the gesture.

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