Saint Mary of the Assumption Church by Lori Strock Photography / Wikimedia Commons
The election of Pope Leo XIV has drawn crowds, phone calls, and fresh interest to Christ Our Savior Parish in South Chicago, where the new pontiff once worshiped as a young man.
Known to parishioners as Robert Prevost, Pope Leo grew up just minutes away in Riverdale and was once a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, Chicago Catholic reported. His parish later merged with others and became part of what is now Christ Our Savior Parish. The original St. Mary of the Assumption church building was sold, but Christ Our Savior parish continues to serve the community and now welcomes visitors interested in the Pope’s roots.
Father Gosbert Rwezahura, pastor of Christ Our Savior Parish, told Chicago Catholic that soon after Pope Leo’s election, the parish began receiving phone calls and unexpected visitors. Many came to share their joy, ask questions, and see the church that now has a unique link to the Vatican.
“[He’s] not only from Chicago, but from our place, you know, from our parish. He’s one of us,” Fr. Rwezahura said. “It is a blessing for all of us, for our parishioners and our parish.”
Although visits have slowed since the initial excitement, people still stop by Christ Our Savior Parish, often asking about remnants of the pope’s original parish. Fr. Rwezahura typically points them to the tabernacle — one of the few physical links to St. Mary of the Assumption.
“The tabernacle has a connection with [the] church and with the pope too,” he said.
Staff and parishioners alike are still processing the news. Some recall their own milestones at St. Mary of the Assumption, including marriages and family sacraments. Others marvel at how their humble neighborhood now shares a bond with the Vatican.
“It was pretty unbelievable, I think for everyone, that not only is he from the United States, but that he’s from right here,” said Linda Morgridge, who works for the parish and was married in St. Mary of the Assumption Church. “I think it draws us all closer to God.”
The response from outside the Catholic community has also been a surprise. Janis Taliaferro, who works in the parish office, noted that several Protestant pastors have called to express their excitement.
For many in the parish, the idea of a pope visiting their community still feels distant — but not impossible.
“Everybody wants the pope to visit their country, you know. But I hope he will come,” Fr. Rwezahura said. “Even if for a few minutes.”
Looking ahead, parishioners have discussed plans to honor the pope in some way, but those ideas are still taking shape. In the meantime, the local impact of the papal election is already visible. Fr. Rwezahura said he hopes the news might reignite interest in the Church, especially among the youth and those who have drifted away.
