The Village of New Lenox, which has connections to Pope Leo, has dedicated a street in his honor.
Part of 2nd Avenue near St. Jude Catholic Church has been named Honorary Pope Leo XIV Road.
"Everyone of course is trying to lay claim to the Pope and his story," said Mayor Timothy Baldermann during a dedication ceremony at the Village Hall, "but right here in New Lenox we know we have a definite strong connection. Prior to being Pope his holiness was assigned to teach at Providence Catholic High School here in our community and , Pope Leo, prior to becoming Pope, said mass at St. Jude and has family that live in this community."
The Pope's Brother, John, was handed an honorary street sign.
He said he was on the phone with his brother earlier in the day.
"I told him I was coming here for this and he says 'thank you for the honor.'"
The mayor also noted that New Lennox has been listed as the Pope's official hometown since 2012.
