Pope Leo XIV’s closet keeps getting more full with Chicago sports gear.
This time, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams sent an autographed jersey to Leo, a Chicago native and the first American-born pope in the history of the Catholic Church.
Gifted by Williams’ Caleb Cares foundation, the jersey was presented to the Pope by Brian Burch, the U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, on July 4.
Not only was the jersey autographed, but Williams personalized it with a “To: Pope Leo” greeting and included three hashtags – #DaPope, #DaBears and #Heisman22.
In addition to the hashtags and greeting, Williams inscribed his No. 18 with “AMDG,” which stands for “Ad majorem Dei gloriam,” a latin phrase that translates to “For the greater glory of God.”
With a caption of “shoutout DAAAA POPEEEE,” Williams shared the picture of Leo and Burch on his Instagram story. While the white jersey with orange numbers isn’t one usually worn by the Bears, it may be an early glimpse at the team’s Nike “Rivalries” uniform.
Leo has a close connection with Chicago sports, and was in attendance for Game 1 of the 2005 World Series between the White Sox and Astros.
Last month, Leo was given the ball from the game’s final out by former White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski.
Leo has also been gifted a signed Paul Konerko jersey and a bat from White Sox legend Nellie Fox.
Days after being elected by the College of Cardinals during the 2025 papal conclave, U.S. Vice President JD Vance gave the Pope a custom Bears jersey.
With Leo likely cheering from afar, the Bears look to build off their 11-6 2025 season and Divisional Round appearance this year.
The Bears kick off their season Sept. 13 at the Panthers.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
