"The Pope is from Chicago. This is one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city," said Mayor Brandon Johnson in a statement.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield released a statement expressing profound joy and deep gratitude to God for the election.

Robert Francis Prevost, now officially known as Pope Leo XIV, recently made history as the first American to ascend to the Throne of Saint Peter—and in celebration of his Chicago roots, a Windy City restaurant chain is honoring the new pope by naming a dish after him.

As Pope Leo XIV settles into his new job in the Vatican, Catholics everywhere continue to celebrate, including in the La Grange area.

The internet went wild after the selection of Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native, with memes, t-shirts, and even a sandwich named in his honor.

The church where Pope Leo XIV attended mass as a child and served as an altar boy is now an empty shell.Only the stained glass windows remain intact inside the sturdy facade of St Mary's of the Assumption on the far edge of Chicago's South Side.

Another great pie is the Chicago Classic from Green Township's Werkhaus Pizza, which is topped with green bell peppers, sweet onions and sausage. Its charred, crackery crust is downright addictive, so don't be surprised if you find yourself eating around the edges.

Globally, everyone is reacting to the newly-appointed Pope in the Catholic Church, and bishop of Rome. On Thursday, it was announced that Cardinal Robert Prevost has been named the new pope, he is the first American pope in history and will go by the name Pope Leo XIV who was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.

The Leo will be available throughout the month of May, which just so happens to be Italian Beef Month. (Extra cause for meaty celebration!) Portillo's also declares that the "heavenly creation" will channel "the passion, flavor, and pride that Chicagoans are known for — right down to the last juicy bite."