Thousands of miles away from Gemelli Hospital in Rome, a classroom in Chicago is proving that hometown ties run deep — even all the way to the Vatican.
Following news that Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery on Oct. 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung due to lung cancer, a group of elementary students from his hometown are making sure the recovering pontiff has a warm piece of Chicago to comfort him.
Members of ‘Team 14’ — a 40-student service group at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy named in honor of Pope Leo XIV — gathered on Oct. 14 to assemble a special care package for the Holy Father. Inside the box are stacks of colorful, hand-drawn get-well cards and a fleece Chicago White Sox blanket tied together by the students.
A Special Hometown Connection
Team 14 originally gained viral fame on social media last year after hosting a mock conclave at their school. The viral moment led to a dream trip for several students who traveled to Rome to meet Pope Leo XIV in person.
Now, with the Pope recovering from major surgery, the connection feels deeply personal for the children.
Sixth grade student Ines Martins who met the Holy Father
