Rabbi Joseph Schultz expressed delight upon discovering that the Catholic Church had named its first-ever American-born Pope. His joy further escalated when he found out that Pope Leo XIV, much like himself, traces his roots back to the Chicago region. But the surprise which exhilarated him beyond measure was learning that the newly appointed Pope, who was born as Robert Francis Prevost in 1955, shares an affinity for sports, especially the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bears, and Villanova’s sports program. Interestingly, he graduated from Villanova in 1977, securing a degree in science and mathematics.
Rabbi Schultz has a vivid memory of a certain conversation with his daughter, Reena Schultz, who excitedly exclaimed, ‘Dad, the latest Pope is a supporter of the Chicago White Sox!’ Noteworthy is the fact that Rabbi Schultz also grew up being an enthusiast of the White Sox.
Schultz had a memorable experience with the White Sox team as a teenager, standing in temporarily for their regular batboy, who had taken some time off. This must have been around 1943 when Schultz was roughly 14, he recalled. With a house on Richmond Street in Chicago’s Marquette Park, young Joe Schultz got the unexpected opportunity.
Reminiscing about his time with the White Sox, Schultz said that it was like being with family. The players left a warm impression, displaying cordiality, which made him feel welcome. The White Sox formed an integral part of his growing years.
Schultz is optimistic about Pope Leo. To him, Pope Leo possesses characteristics similar to the amicability of the White Sox team. He appreciates that the Pope took an interest in the disadvantaged populace of Peru, guiding them towards the church.
Although Pope Leo wasn’t an extremely fervent supporter of the White Sox, endearingly holding a collection of bubble gum cards from the team like many fans, he indeed attended the opening game of the 2005 World Series. He witnessed this event while serving as a priest named ‘Father Bob’ at the Order of Saint Augustine.
In the perspective of Rabbi Schultz, the disadvantaged referred to as ‘displaced people’ represent one of the challenges Pope Leo currently faces. The issues Pope Leo needs to manage extend to handling the church sexual abuse scandal, the Vatican’s economic troubles, and defining women’s roles as the Catholic Church progresses into the 21st century. The LGBTQ+ community is eager to learn of Pope Leo’s viewpoint, particularly following Pope Francis’s inclusive message.
Given the multitude of responsibilities to attend to, the Pope’s affiliation with sports, despite being notable, will only serve a limited purpose. Even the fact as intriguing as having a World Series ticket stub adorning his dresser should only find minimal significance.
Regardless of their differing philosophies, there’s no denying that both the people of Chicago and Villanova are ecstatic about the idea of their cherished sports teams having a famous supporter in the form of the Pope.
While it’s completely plausible to assume that Pope Leo’s previous exposure to sports could assist him in fostering global teamwork, it’s desirable that he exploits the world of sports as an occasional respite as well. Especially in the present era where betting has been legalized, sports persists as a magnificent medium for diversion.
Rabbi Schultz’s assertion that a White Sox game, or any sports event for that matter, is a fantastic space to relax and socialize with your circle resonates with many. Could it be purely optimistic thinking? It’s possible. Yet, it certainly wouldn’t harm for Pope Leo to take a leisurely break on a Sunday, settle on his couch, and enjoy a Bears game.