In a historic and light-hearted moment at the Vatican, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker presented a special gift from back home to Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff to hail from the United States.
The meeting, which took place on Wednesday 19 November 2025, saw the Democratic governor hand the Pope a four-pack of an American mild ale from a brewery in Chicago.
A Fitting Gift from the Windy City
The beer, a new release from the Burning Bush Brewery on Chicago's north side, carries the name "Da Pope". This moniker is a playful nod to a famous sketch from the Saturday Night Live television show, which centres on the Chicago Bears American football team.
Governor Pritzker, who has served as Illinois governor since 2019, suggested that the Pope, who is originally from Chicago, might appreciate a taste of a local brew. In a warm response, Pope Leo accepted the gift, stating, "We'll put that in the fridge," before placing the beers on a table.
The Historic American Pontiff
The recipient of this unique gift, Pope Leo XIV, made history in May 2025 when he was elected as the successor to the late Pope Francis. His election, signified by white smoke from the Sistine Chapel, marked the first time a cardinal from the United States has ascended to the papacy.
Born Cardinal Robert Prevost, the new Pope hails from Chicago's south side but has spent the majority of his career as a missionary in Peru. He was brought to the Vatican in 2023 by Pope Francis to lead the powerful office that vets bishop nominations, a crucial role within the Catholic Church.
The Vatican has not yet commented on whether the pontiff, known for being media-shy and rarely speaking in public, plans to sample the beverage.
The Path to the Papacy
The conclave following the death of Pope Francis lasted for two days. The process culminates when a cardinal receives the required 89 votes and accepts the role. Upon acceptance, he must choose a papal name before being led to the "Room of Tears"—a small chamber off the Sistine Chapel named for the emotional weight of the responsibility—where he dons the white papal vestments.
While Governor Pritzker did not immediately disclose the reason for his visit to Rome, it is common practice for travelling foreign officials to meet with the pope while in the city.
