Governor Pritzker Meets Pope Leo XIV

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker traveled to the Vatican this week for a historic meeting with Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff and a native of the Chicago area. The gathering brought a uniquely personal dimension to what is typically a formal diplomatic encounter, linking Illinois’ identity with one of the most significant figures in global religious leadership.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, grew up in Dolton on Chicago’s South Side before beginning a life of service through the Order of St. Augustine. He earned degrees from Villanova University and later the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he deepened his theological studies. His missionary work in Peru and subsequent leadership roles in Rome led to his election as pope in May 2025, marking the first time an American has ever led the Catholic Church.

Illinois’ strong Catholic presence — with roughly 23% of adults statewide identifying as Catholic and nearly two million Catholics in the Chicago region alone — added further significance to the meeting. For many Illinoisans, the pope’s local roots and rise to global prominence offer both pride and a sense of connection to the Vatican.

During the audience, Governor Pritzker presented several symbolic gifts on behalf of the people of Illinois. These included artwork created by incarcerated women at the Logan Correctional Center, two historical volumes highlighting Illinois’ heritage and architectural history, and a four-pack of Chicago-brewed “Da Pope” American mild ale. The selection aimed to honor both the pope’s Illinois background and the cultural richness of the state he once called home.

Reflecting on the visit, Pritzker underscored the resonance Pope Leo XIV holds for Illinois residents. “Pope Leo XIV’s message of hope, compassion, unity, and peace resonates with Illinoisans of all faiths and traditions,” the governor said, noting that the pope’s leadership mirrors values deeply rooted across communities in the state.