American Catholic community in Chicago rejoices as hometown son, Pope Leo XIV, ascends to papal throne, marking historical milestone as the first U.S. pope.

In the heart of Chicago, excitement surged through the air as Cardinal Robert Prevost, a local native, emerged as the new Pope Leo XIV. This groundbreaking selection had young minds at The Frances Xavier Warde School glued to their TVs, rejoicing as they witnessed history unfold.

The proud, emotional atmosphere was evident when Pope Leo XIV made his debut on the screen. Students jumped with joy, high-fiving one another, their eyes gleaming with pride and disbelief. Mary Perrotti, the school's director of advancement, shared their sentiments, saying, "This is awe-inspiring for our students. It's a Chicagoan becoming their pope! They can't contain their excitement."

Born in 1955 in Bronzeville, South Side Chicago, and raised in suburban Dolton, Pope Leo XIV embarked on a path of faith and service. He pursued theology studies at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago in Hyde Park and even taught in local Catholic schools, including St. Rita High School.

Barbara Reid, President of the Catholic Theological Union, expressed admiration: "We're elated that someone we've known personally is now the beloved leader of the entire church. It's a powerful bond for our community."

John Doughney, a fellow St. Mary's grade school graduate from 1969, remembers Prevost as a beacon of kindness and compassion. Despite their youth, it was clear to all that Prevost was destined for the priesthood. "It's remarkable that he is our pope now. We're incredibly proud of him," shared Doughney.

For Linda Eickmann, who was also born and raised in Dolton, seeing Pope Leo XIV on the news was a pinch-me moment. "Can you believe it? A pope from my home, my elementary school! It's unbelievable," she joyfully exclaimed.

Eickmann fondly recounted the Prevost family's active involvement in the St. Mary's community. They ran sloppy joe sales to raise funds for the school and ensured all their sons served as altar boys. Raul Raymundo, co-founder of the Resurrection Project, expressed pride in Chicago and hope for the pope continuing the city's legacy of social justice and compassion, especially in welcoming immigrants.

In churches across the city, locals gathered to pray and celebrate the momentous decision. At Holy Name Cathedral, Laurel Legle, a non-Catholic observer, felt compelled to participate. She described the occasion as a profound moment. Zoë Poehlman, a nurse who moved to Chicago recently, shared the excitement and hopes for citywide celebrations.

Father Gregory Sakowicz, the cathedral's rector, expressed joy and wondered whether the new Pope was a White Sox fan. Amid the city's pride, memes flew across social media platforms, showcasing Chicago's unique charm: deep-dish and tavern-style pizza, Chicago liqueur Maloët, and baseball.

Many users also hoped Pope Leo XIV would continue the city's tradition of social justice. "To have a local son, born and raised in a city steeped in support and care for all, it resonates deeply," said Perrotti. "I believe his upbringing in Chicago will undoubtedly shape his compassionate and justice-oriented ministries. It provides a powerful global representation of who we are as a city."

In Pope Leo XIV, Chicagoans have a beacon of hope and a shining example of homegrown leadership. His election serves as a testament to the city's enduring commitment to justice, compassion, and unity.

Mary Perrotti, the school's director of advancement, expressed awe-inspiring feelings about the historical event, stating that Chicagoans have their pope.
John Doughney, a fellow Saint Mary's grade school graduate from 1969, remembered Pope Leo XIV as a beacon of kindness and compassion, adding that they are incredibly proud of him.
Raul Raymundo, co-founder of the Resurrection Project, expressed pride in Chicago and hoped the pope would continue the city's legacy of social justice and compassion, especially for immigrants.
Laurel Legle, a non-Catholic observer, was compelled to participate in church gatherings and described the occasion as a profound moment.
Zoë Poehlman, a nurse who moved to Chicago recently, shared the excitement and hopes for citywide celebrations, wishing for the pope to continue the tradition of social justice in the city.