A village in Chicago’s south suburbs is on the brink of purchasing Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home, following a unanimous vote by its board on Tuesday. The small, two-story house located on E. 142nd Place in Dolton, Illinois, approximately 20 miles south of Chicago, has garnered national attention since Leo’s election, drawing visitors curious about the pope’s formative years.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, made history in May by becoming the first American pope. His election was met with surprise and celebration across the United States, marking a significant milestone for the Catholic Church in America. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson described Leo’s election as “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city.”
The Historic Significance of Pope Leo XIV’s Early Life
Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost pursued a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Villanova University and later obtained a diploma in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. His dedication to the Church led him to spend decades as a missionary, including 20 years in Peru, where he became a naturalized citizen and served as a bishop.
The decision to purchase the pope’s childhood home is seen by members of the Dolton Village Board as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” The acquisition aims to honor the pope’s legacy and potentially boost the local economy by transforming the site into a historical landmark.
“We can either seize this moment and move it forward, or we can let that moment go to an investor,” Dolton Mayor Jason House stated during the board meeting.
Economic and Community Implications
Mayor House emphasized that acquiring the property could allow Dolton to reevaluate enterprise and historic land zones, potentially attracting “state and congressional funds” to the area. The mayor and other trustees referenced the economic benefits seen in communities with historic sites, such as the homes of Michael Jackson and Martin Luther King Jr.
However, the decision has not been without controversy. Some residents have expressed concerns about the increased traffic and the strain on the community’s infrastructure. Longtime Dolton resident Mary Avent voiced her apprehensions to CNN affiliate WBBM, questioning the town’s financial priorities given the absence of a police and fire chief.
“Purchasing the pope’s house is admirable,” Avent said, “but with the state we’re in right now, I guess my concern is, do we have the money?”
Addressing Community Concerns
Trustee Edward Steave acknowledged the residents’ concerns during the meeting, affirming that their complaints were valid. However, he maintained that the community could pursue this opportunity while addressing other pressing issues.
The sale is expected to close within the next two weeks, according to Mayor House. Meanwhile, photos shared on the village’s Facebook page show workers undertaking repairs on the house’s roof, though it remains uncertain if these repairs are being directed by the town.
As Dolton moves forward with the acquisition, the village board is expected to provide further details on how they plan to manage and utilize the historic property. The potential transformation of Pope Leo XIV’s childhood home into a landmark could serve as a catalyst for both cultural enrichment and economic development in the area.
