Pope Leo has sparked online buzz after accepting a humorous gift from an American family who traveled far to see him.
Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became Pope Leo XIV earlier this year, following Pope Francis’s death, marking the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
The new pope has been warmly received, especially by fellow Americans, who have begun giving him quirky gifts. In June, he wore a Chicago White Sox cap in public, blending tradition with modern flair.
Recently, a U.S. family gifted him a shirt reading “Da Pope,” a nod to the classic SNL “Da Bears” sketch. The playful moment, rare for a pope, delighted many online.
Pope Leo’s willingness to engage in lighthearted moments—like signing a Pokémon card—has sparked debate. While some see it as “cringe,” others praise it as a sign of pride and relatability.
“He’s fun, down-to-earth, and still serious when it matters,” one Redditor noted. “They’ll never let us have another American pope after this,” joked another.
Despite breaking the mold, Pope Leo’s charm and hometown pride are winning fans around the world.