During a significant visit to the Vatican, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson met with Pope Leo XIV to discuss various social justice issues, including migration and reparations. The meeting included a playful exchange, with Johnson presenting the Pope with a range of Chicago-themed gifts such as Cubs merchandise and local condiments. Johnson extended an invitation for Pope Leo to officiate a mass in Grant Park in 2027, highlighting their shared Chicago roots. The meeting reportedly focused on finding common ground in the fight against injustice, and Johnson views the Pope as a key ally in his efforts. The visit, however, drew mixed reactions, with some critics questioning the appropriateness of the meeting amid ongoing challenges in the city. After their discussions, Johnson continued his trip in Italy with tours of historic sites.