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CHICAGO (WLS) — Today marks a significant milestone as Pope Leo celebrates his first anniversary as the leader of the Catholic Church.
To commemorate the occasion, Pope Leo spent the morning in Pompei, Italy, where he warmly greeted throngs of devoted followers.
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Often referred to as “Chicago’s pope,” his rise to the papacy continues to be a point of immense pride for the city he hails from.
A variety of events are planned to honor the first American-born pope’s one-year anniversary. Pope Leo, originally from the South Side of Chicago, is celebrated for his local roots and connection to the community.
In honor of this special day, a pilgrimage is taking place, allowing participants to visit Pope Leo’s childhood parish and his former home in Dolton, now recognized as a historical landmark.
It’s led by the group the Pope Leo XIV American Legacy Foundation.
Pope Leo’s papacy emphasizes unity, community, and truth as an Augustinian. He’s spent much of the past year focusing on peace and unity.
He also made some influential picks for the U.S. church in his first year, including naming former Joliet Bishop Ron Hicks as the Archbishop of New York.
His background here in Chicago include the time Pope Leo studied at the Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park.
He taught at St. Rita High School and is an honorary alumnus there.
And how could we forget, he is a very proud White Sox fan.
The day begins at Christ Our Savior Church with a Mass at 8:30 a.m. in South Holland.
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