CHICAGO (WGN) – Friday, May 8 signifies one year since Pope Leo XIV was first introduced to the public, with numerous individuals visiting the pontiff’s childhood church and home on the Far South Side to commemorate the anniversary.
Like many others, teacher and St. Mary of the Assumption Church owner Joe Hall was excited to learn that Pope Leo is a White Sox supporter from the South Side. Hall was truly amazed when he discovered that the pope grew up attending St. Mary’s, having graduated from eighth grade in 1969.
“I can hear him saying, ‘We just learned that the new pope attended church and school here. Oh wow.’ I turned around and said, ‘Class is over,'” Hall mentioned.
The entrances of St. Mary’s, set to begin renovations soon, were open on Friday allowing guests to revisit the past while honoring the pope’s first year at the helm of the Catholic Church.
“I’m truly thrilled to be here today, on this anniversary,” said Denise Delanty, a former student of St. Mary’s.
In recent weeks, the pope has been in the news for expressing opposition to the conflict in Iran. In his first year, many have noted that he has stayed committed to his pledge to promote unity and support underprivileged groups.
On Friday, a unique service was conducted at Christ Our Savior in South Holland to pay tribute to the pope.
Back at St. Mary’s, visitors passed through the historic church that requires significant restoration, yet they were astonished to follow in the pope’s footsteps.
“I mean, who would have imagined a young boy from Dolton, where I grew up, becoming Pope? So it’s truly a special moment,” visitor Karalyn Seida said.
Hall stated that his objective is to revive the church’s vitality. By the conclusion of this year, he aims to invite individuals, such as Pope Leo, back to engage in prayer and worship.
“I am hoping we can reach a stage where he can celebrate Mass here,” Hall said, expressing his hope that Pope Leo will visit soon.
Hall also intends to provide employee development and medical services at the campus.
Not far from St. Mary’s is the pope’s modest childhood home in Dolton, where many visitors came to tour and feel more connected to the pontiff.
“It offers a bit more understanding of why he is the person he is now; modest and grounded,” said visitor Rolonda Everly.
The pope celebrated his anniversary in the city of Pompeii, surrounded by his supporters, some of whom waited all night for the occasion.
He began his visit by meeting with individuals who are ill and disabled, receiving care from a charity center linked to the sanctuary.
May 8 is also recognized as the Feast Day of Our Lady of Pompeii, a celebration honoring the shrine devoted to the Virgin Mary, established in 1876.
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