A Historic Day at Sox Park: Celebrating the Election of Pope Leo

by Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the Midwest Augustinians

As I stood on the field at Rate Stadium, looking out over a sea of faithful gathered for the Special Mass celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV, my heart was filled with gratitude and awe. It was a moment that defied expectations, rooted deeply in the joy of our Catholic faith, and electrified by the unique setting of a South Side baseball stadium.

There was an infectious energy in the air — not just because we were celebrating the election of a new pope, but because this pope, Pope Leo XIV, is one of our own. An Augustinian. A son of Chicago. A man whose pastoral heart and commitment to truth, unity, and charity were shaped in the same streets and sanctuaries where many of us started our own faith journeys.

Seeing thousands of people gathered—families, young people, religious individuals, clergy, and everyday Catholics—singing and praying together outdoors was deeply moving. This wasn’t just a celebration of an election; it was a celebration of what can happen when faith is alive in the public square.

The Church, especially in times like ours, needs bold witnesses. Pope Leo brings with him a built-in community life and a lifelong dedication to accompanying the people of God. His election affirms that the Holy Spirit is still at work, raising up leaders from humble places for a global Church.

I was especially proud of the lay presence — those who have walked with the Augustinians in ministry, our Affiliates, our schools and parish, Friends of Augustine, and those who have prayed, worked, and served alongside our friars. This moment belongs to them, too. Their joy mirrored ours, a sign that the Augustinian charism is not confined to a cloister or pulpit but is lived in neighborhoods, classrooms, parishes, and stadiums.

There was something poetic about this gathering happening in the heart of the South Side, a place that understands struggle and resilience, faith and grit. Pope Leo’s roots here remind us that holiness and leadership are not the exclusive domain of the elite, but the result of a life lived close to the people, rooted in community, and passionate for God.

On a more personal note, I’ve had the privilege of knowing Pope Leo for many years. I describe him as an ordinary person who lives his life in an extraordinary way.  He’s pragmatic and attentive in his personal approach to those who surround him.  His unwavering commitment and dedication to his ministry are indicative of his overall service to the Church.

As Prior Provincial, I left that day feeling renewed — not just as a leader but as a fellow pilgrim. The enthusiasm on the faces of young people, the reverence for the liturgy, and the spontaneous cheers at the mention of “Pope Leo” all confirmed that this is not just a historic moment for the Order of St. Augustine — it is a moment of hope for the entire Church.

And so we keep moving forward, walking this journey together, one heart and one mind on the path to God. Pope Leo XIV may now sit in Peter’s Chair, but his heart will always remain with us — restless, loving, and faithful.