Pope Leo XIV schedules mass in Chicago on Trump's birthday

In the United States, on June 14, 2025, Pope Leo XIV plans to hold a mass celebration at Rate Field in Chicago, coinciding with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday and a military parade happening in Washington D.C. The event aims to engage young people globally, with the pope offering a special video message during the celebration. The Chicago Archdiocese announced that tickets for the mass are available for a nominal fee, with gates opening at 12:30 PM and the mass beginning at 4 PM. This arrangement has sparked discussions online, with many suggesting it is a form of trolling aimed at Trump, given the timing and the pope's previous criticism of the president's policies, particularly regarding immigration. The military parade in Washington D.C., which is described as a multi-million dollar celebration, is characterized by the White House as a tribute to the nation's military heroes. The connection between the two events has highlighted the contrasting political and religious landscapes surrounding the current administration, as the pontiff has been vocal about his disapproval of Trump's immigration policies in the past. These occurrences are further intensified by the recent history of public disagreement between Trump and Pope Francis, in which both leaders have expressed criticism of one another's approaches and policies, particularly related to humanitarian issues. The clash of the events' dates has raised eyebrows and led to speculation regarding the pope's intentions and what message he aims to convey to Trump and the world during this unusual coincidence.