Chicago-Born Pope Receives Taste of Home from Illinois Governor
In a remarkable moment of diplomatic gift-giving, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker presented Pope Leo XIV with a taste of their shared Chicago heritage during a recent Vatican visit. The historic meeting saw the governor gift a four-pack of 'Da Pope' mild ale, brewed specifically in Chicago to honour the first American pontiff.
A Pontiff with Chicago Roots
The presentation held special significance as Pope Leo XIV, originally Cardinal Robert Prevost, hails from Chicago himself. Elected in May as successor to Pope Francis, his papacy marks a groundbreaking moment as the first pontiff from the United States. Prior to his election, Pope Leo XIV served as head of the office vetting bishop nominations and spent much of his career as a missionary in Peru.
Governor Pritzker, accompanied by his wife Mary Kathryn Muenster, suggested the locally brewed beer as an appropriate gift for the Chicago-born Pope during their Wednesday 19 November 2025 meeting. The beer's name, 'Da Pope', cleverly references a popular Saturday Night Live sketch, adding a touch of American humour to the proceedings.
Papal Reception and Future Implications
The pontiff's response demonstrated both warmth and practicality. Upon receiving the distinctive brew, Pope Leo XIV remarked, 'We'll put that in the fridge', acknowledging the thoughtful gift while hinting at its eventual consumption. This exchange represents more than mere pleasantries—it signifies a unique moment of cultural connection between the Vatican and American leadership.
The meeting between the Illinois delegation and the Pope underscores the growing importance of city-specific diplomacy in international relations. By presenting a product deeply rooted in Chicago's cultural identity, Governor Pritzker successfully blended formal state business with personal hometown pride.
This event also highlights how local businesses can gain international recognition through strategic diplomatic exchanges. The Chicago brewery responsible for 'Da Pope' ale has now received papal endorsement, however informal, potentially boosting its profile both domestically and abroad.
