It’s just remarkable to see someone I know as the pope,” said the Rev. Joe Roccasalva, an Augustinian priest who grew up in Beverly on the South Side.

As many as 150,000 people turned out in the Vatican Sunday for Pope Leo XIV's installation mass, and many Chicagoans made the journey to Rome to represent their hometown pope. For a select few, the day was more special than they ever imagined.

There is a new landmark at the home of the Chicago White Sox — Section 140, Row 19, Seat 2. That's where Father Bob — the future Pope Leo XIV — sat for Game 1 of the 2005 World Series. The White Sox unveiled a graphic installation Monday that pays tribute to the new pontiff and that moment during their last championship run.

"The Pope is from Chicago. This is one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city," said Mayor Brandon Johnson in a statement.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield released a statement expressing profound joy and deep gratitude to God for the election.

Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio enjoyed a private audience with Pope Leo XIV, bringing with them a message from the White House.

JD Vance didn't arrive at the Vatican empty-handed ... the Vice President brought a custom Chicago Bears jersey for Pope Leo XIV, featuring the Holy Father's name! Vance presented the new Pope with the special gift during their meeting in the Apostolic Palace on Monday

Readers are surprised to see a selection from the United States, proud of the Chicago connection and full of mixed feelings about perceived similarities to Pope Francis.