Gary and Kelly DeStefano, a couple from Haverhill, Massachusetts, are avid Red Sox fans, but they found themselves in an unexpected moment of connection with Pope Leo XIV during a trip to the Vatican for a special blessing for newlyweds. While the couple had no idea what was in store, family members played a key role in creating a memorable experience.
During the ceremony, Pope Leo, who hails from Chicago, delighted the crowd by wearing a White Sox hat. The moment was a nod to his hometown team, and the crowd’s cheers reflected the strong connection between the new pontiff and his roots.
Gary DeStefano recalled the moment with a smile, saying, “When he took it, he was so humble. He said, ‘You’re going to get in trouble for this,'” after the couple revealed they were from Boston. “He said, ‘This will make the news.’”
The idea for the White Sox hats came from Kelly’s cousin, who suggested the couple wear them to stand out. “He said if you had to stand out from the crowd, put the hat on because he’s a fan,” Gary explained. The couple also wanted to bring something special for the Pope, who is known to be a passionate White Sox fan.
The Pope’s connection to the team dates back to 2005, when he watched the White Sox in Game 1 of the World Series, which they won that year. In honor of this, the team recently installed a graphic at Guaranteed Rate Field marking the spot where the Pope sat during the game. They also shared a photo of him wearing the Sox hat at the Vatican with the caption, “Representing his favorite squad.”
Kelly DeStefano joked, “You’re welcome, Chicago,” as she reflected on the significance of the moment.
“It’s almost so surreal,” Gary said. “We haven’t fully processed everything that happened.”
The couple plans to keep the White Sox hat as a cherished keepsake. Kelly said it would be framed alongside articles about their unforgettable experience. However, she made it clear that the hat would not be sold. “It’s not for sale,” she said, emphasizing its sentimental value.
