An extraordinary meeting unfolded recently as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker was granted a private audience with Pope Leo XIV. The encounter, facilitated by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich, transcended typical diplomatic exchanges, becoming a powerful dialogue rooted in shared concerns and a mutual commitment to human dignity.
The conversation centered on a growing unease regarding the federal government’s “Operation Midway Blitz,” a controversial ICE enforcement mission. Governor Pritzker shared his observations of the operation’s impact on Illinois communities, and the Pope listened intently, seeking a deeper understanding of the situation unfolding on the ground.
Pritzker described a palpable sense of fear and anxiety within Chicago’s immigrant communities, a feeling the Pope reportedly acknowledged and shared. He recounted the pontiff’s strong feelings about ICE’s activities and his desire to hear firsthand accounts of the operation’s effects.
The Pope expressed relief upon learning that “Operation Midway Blitz” appeared to be scaling back in Chicago. This news resonated deeply, aligning with his broader message of hope, compassion, and unity – a message that Pritzker emphasized resonates with Illinoisans of all backgrounds.
This wasn’t the first time Pope Leo XIV had publicly addressed the complexities of immigration. He had previously questioned the consistency of a “pro-life” stance that simultaneously condoned the harsh treatment of immigrants, arguing for humane and just processes within the legal system.
While acknowledging a nation’s right to establish immigration laws, the Pope consistently advocated for dignity and respect in their enforcement. He stressed the importance of upholding justice while recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their legal status.
The meeting held a deeply personal significance for Governor Pritzker, who described feeling the Pope’s profound humanity. Acknowledging his own Jewish faith, Pritzker called the moment “special,” a testament to the universal values at the heart of their discussion.
The exchange wasn’t solely serious in tone. Pritzker presented Pope Leo XIV with a unique gift: a case of “Da Pope” beer from an Illinois brewery, Burning Bush. The Pope, with a warm smile, responded that it would find a place in the refrigerator, adding a touch of levity to the momentous occasion.
The last papal visit to Chicago occurred decades ago, in 1979, when John Paul II addressed a massive crowd at Grant Park. This recent, private audience signals a renewed focus on dialogue and collaboration between faith leaders and government officials on issues of critical importance to communities across the nation.
