Pope Leo XIV will deliver his first message to American audiences this Saturday in a special virtual appearance from his hometown of Chicago, marking his first U.S. address since ascending to the papacy in May.

The event will take place at a cherished local venue: Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox and a stadium close to the pope’s heart. The Archdiocese of Chicago announced that Pope Leo’s pre-recorded message—his first global address specifically aimed at young people—will be broadcast to a live crowd gathered at the ballpark. A Catholic Mass led by Cardinal Blase Cupich will follow. The entire event will also be livestreamed on YouTube.

“Pope Leo’s message of peace, unity, and spiritual purpose has inspired people around the world,” the archdiocese said in a statement. “This gathering offers the people of Chicago and beyond an extraordinary moment to celebrate the achievements of one of our own.”

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, Pope Leo XIV grew up in the nearby suburb of Dolton. A lifelong fan of the White Sox, he has been spotted attending games throughout the years—including famously cheering at Game 1 of the 2005 World Series. His brother, John Prevost, confirmed the pope’s deep-rooted loyalty to the South Side team shortly after his election.

The White Sox leaned into the historic moment, posting a photo on social media Wednesday showing Pope Leo wearing a team cap during his weekly general audience at the Vatican. “He’s representing his favorite squad,” the team wrote.

White Sox manager Will Venable welcomed the support: “It’s great. I love the support. Need it.” Rookie pitcher Grant Taylor noted the potential ripple effect. “If the pope’s over there in the Vatican wearing a Sox hat, maybe Europe becomes Sox country. It could help grow the game.”

In tribute, the White Sox will unveil a commemorative display near the seat Pope Leo occupied during the 2005 championship series.

Ordained in 1981 and a member of the Order of Saint Augustine, Pope Leo is the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His brother John previously served as principal of a Catholic high school just blocks from Rate Field—adding yet another layer of hometown pride to this historic occasion.