The Chicago White Sox recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of their 2005 World Series championship run in an event that included a special presentation to former player Paul Konerko. Cardinal Blase Cupich, the archbishop of Chicago, honored Konerko by presenting him with a jersey signed by the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. This unique gesture not only commemorated a significant milestone in White Sox history but also highlighted the connection between Chicago’s sports culture and its newly appointed religious leader.
The jersey, which featured the name “Konerko” along with “Pope Leo” above the No. 14, was unveiled during a ceremony held before the White Sox's game against the Cleveland Guardians. This was a particularly significant moment for Konerko, who played for the White Sox for 16 seasons and was a key figure in their 2005 championship victory. The ceremony took place amidst a gathering of team members from the 2005 roster, creating a nostalgic atmosphere as they reminisced about their historic achievement.
Pope Leo XIV, whose real name is Robert Prevost, made history on May 8 when he became the first pope from the United States. A native of Chicago, and a self-declared White Sox fan, Prevost had a personal connection to the 2005 World Series. He attended the series opener at U.S. Cellular Field, where he witnessed the White Sox triumph over the Houston Astros. The game ended with a score of 5-3, marking the beginning of a four-game sweep that led to the franchise's first championship title since 1917.
In recognition of this connection, the White Sox organization unveiled a graphic installation near the seat from which Pope Leo XIV watched the game. The artwork showcases an image of the waving pope along with a notable photograph from the televised broadcast depicting him sitting with his friend Ed Schmit and his grandson, Eddie, during that memorable game.
Additionally, the weekend of events included tributes to the late Bobby Jenks, the team's former closer who recently passed away from stomach cancer in Portugal. As a mark of respect, the team wore uniform patches dedicated to Jenks during the anniversary celebrations. The festivities also included the unveiling of a statue in honor of former ace pitcher Mark Buehrle, further solidifying the legacy of the 2005 championship team.
The occasion attracted attention not only for honoring the past but also for showcasing the current evolution of Chicago’s baseball scene. By intertwining both historical and contemporary elements, the White Sox demonstrated the enduring significance of team heritage and its impact on the community. The presence of Pope Leo XIV, a passionate fan of the franchise, added a unique layer to the celebrations, reinforcing the idea that sports in Chicago are deeply embedded within the cultural and social fabric of the city.
As the White Sox continue to reflect on their history, the recent events surrounding the 20th anniversary of their World Series victory serve as a powerful reminder of the team's impact on its fans and the broader Chicago community. This blend of sportsmanship and celebration encapsulates the essence of what it means to be part of the White Sox family and highlights the significance of memorable moments that resonate through generations.
