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North Chicago Today
By the People, for the People
Matteson Mayor Meets Pope, Learns of His Childhood in Illinois
Chalmers-Currin says Pope Leo XIV was humble and personable during private audience with Illinois delegation.
Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:29pm
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The pope's childhood home in Dolton, Illinois, a reminder of his personal connection to the state and his call for local leaders to understand the lives of their most vulnerable residents.North Chicago TodayMatteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin led a delegation of Illinois mayors to the Vatican, where they were granted a private audience with Pope Leo XIV. The pope surprised the group by revealing that he had once lived in Matteson as a child, and was familiar with the Chicago area. Chalmers-Currin described the pope as humble and personable, and said he took the time to greet each member of the delegation.
Why it matters
The pope's personal connection to Illinois and his emphasis on serving the most vulnerable members of society resonated strongly with the municipal leaders, underscoring the importance of understanding the lives and struggles of local residents.
The details
During the audience, the delegation presented the pope with a plaque featuring a photo of his childhood home in Dolton, which the village had purchased and is developing plans for. The pope smiled when he saw the photo, though Chalmers-Currin said she didn't get a chance to ask him where exactly in Matteson he had lived. The pope also demonstrated his familiarity with the Chicago area, recognizing the names of local towns and landmarks like Lincoln Mall.
- The delegation's trip took place during Holy Week leading up to Easter.
- The village of Dolton purchased the pope's childhood home last year.
The players
Sheila Chalmers-Currin
The mayor of Matteson, Illinois and president of the Illinois Municipal League.
Pope Leo XIV
The current Pope, who revealed that he had once lived in Matteson, Illinois as a child.
What they’re saying
“He took the time to shake the hands of all the individuals there. He took the time to greet each and every one of them.”
— Sheila Chalmers-Currin, Mayor of Matteson
“While there are many tasks that vie for your attention each day, I would encourage you to continue listening to the poor, to immigrants, to the least among you, seeking to accompany them in your work to promote the common good to the benefit of all.”
— Pope Leo XIV
What’s next
Chalmers-Currin hopes to use records to find out more details about where exactly in Matteson the pope lived as a child.
The takeaway
The pope's personal connection to Illinois and his emphasis on serving the most vulnerable members of society underscores the importance for local leaders of understanding the lives and struggles of their constituents.
