The Chicago White Sox received a unique boost of encouragement ahead of their postseason run when a letter from Pope Leo XIV arrived at Rate Field on Tuesday. Addressed to franchise chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, the papal message arrived just in time for the team’s American League wild-card series opener against the Houston Astros.
- The Pope’s Message on Athletics and Solidarity
- A Lifelong South Side Connection
- Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Pope Leo XIV’s letter arrive at Rate Field?
- Who received the letter from the Pope?
- Why did the Pope write to the White Sox?
- What did the Pope’s letter say about sports?
- Is Pope Leo XIV a long-time White Sox fan?
The communication, dated September 9 from the Vatican, was a direct response to a note sent by Reinsdorf following an August 11 game at Rate Field. During that August matchup, the organization distributed over 38,000 pope-hat novelty items to fans, celebrating the Chicago-born pontiff’s known fandom. The team later sent one of the special miter-shaped hats to the Vatican, where Pope Leo XIV was photographed with it.
The Pope’s Message on Athletics and Solidarity
In his letter to team leadership, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the broader cultural and social impact of athletics, drawing connections to his February 6 letter titled Life in Abundance.
“As I have noted, 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,” the Pope wrote.
“In this spirit, it is my hope that the White Sox will continue to foster bonds of friendship and solidarity among people, and thus bear hopeful witness to the possibility of living and working together in peace. With these sentiments, I willingly invoke the Almighty’s abundant blessings upon you and your loved ones.”
Reinsdorf received the letter around 2 p.m. Tuesday, and the franchise quickly shared images of the document on social media ahead of Game 1. Because the White Sox have not won a postseason series since capturing the World Series title in 2005, fans and leadership welcomed any extra inspiration.
A Lifelong South Side Connection
Pope Leo XIV, who was elected in May 2025, has deep roots in Chicago and a well-documented history with the franchise. Formerly known as Robert Prevost or Father Bob, he famously attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series against the Houston Astros, watching from Section 140, Row 19, Seat 2 as the White Sox secured a 5-3 victory en route to a four-game sweep championship.
Since his election, the Vatican has seen several lighthearted nods to his baseball allegiance. The White Sox installed a graphic tribute near his historic seat at Rate Field featuring a likeness of the pontiff. When recently asked by reporters whether he had a hand in the White Sox securing their first postseason berth since 2021, the smiling Pope offered a playful “No comment,” adding simply that “great things happen in Chicago.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Pope Leo XIV’s letter arrive at Rate Field?
The letter arrived at Rate Field around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, just before the White Sox’s American League wild-card series opener against the Houston Astros.
Who received the letter from the Pope?
The letter was officially addressed to Chicago White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf.
Why did the Pope write to the White Sox?
The letter was written in response to a note sent by Jerry Reinsdorf following an August 11 game where the team gave away over 38,000 pope-themed hats to fans at Rate Field.
What did the Pope’s letter say about sports?
Pope Leo XIV described sport as a “school of life,” emphasizing that true abundance comes from sharing, respecting others, and fostering peace, friendship, and solidarity rather than winning at any cost.
Is Pope Leo XIV a long-time White Sox fan?
Yes. Pope Leo XIV is a Chicago native and lifelong White Sox fan who famously attended Game 1 of the team’s 2005 World Series run at old Comiskey Park / U.S. Cellular Field.
