New England Newlyweds Gift Pope Leo XIV White Sox Hat

Kelly and Gary DeStefano, newlyweds from Haverhill, Massachusetts and longtime Boston Red Sox fans, created a viral moment when they gave Pope Leo XIV a Chicago White Sox hat during the Weekly General Audience at the Vatican. Knowing the newly elected pope was a White Sox fan, the couple brought two hats; Pope Leo XIV laughed, joked about potential trouble since they were Red Sox fans, and wore the hat, breaking Vatican protocol. The DeStefanos described the pope as down-to-earth and appreciated his humor despite the serious nature of his role. The moment was celebrated by the White Sox organization, with manager Will Venable expressing gratitude for the pope's support. The couple considers the hat worn by the pope a treasured keepsake and plans to pass it on to their grandchildren. This memorable interaction capped off their honeymoon and symbolized a unifying moment through sports despite differing team loyalties.