New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson and Archbishop James Checchio of the Archdiocese of New Orleans met with Pope Leo XIV in his private library in the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican on Monday. Joining the delegation meeting with Pope Leo was the Archbishop-emeritus, Archbishop Gregory Aymond, and Saints Senior Vice President of Government Relations Greg Bensel and Wayne LaJaunie, Benson's brother.
During their 35-minute conversation, they discussed the unique family connections between Pope Leo XIV and the city of New Orleans (both of his maternal grandparents lived in the city) as well as the historic St. Louis Cathedral.
The discussion also touched upon the health and vitality of the Catholic community in New Orleans and the work being done to promote the causes of the Servant of God Henriette de Lille and Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos. The pope was particularly interested in the city's Catholic schools and expressed gratitude for the cooperation offered by the state of Louisiana in assisting children with the opportunity of choosing a Catholic education.
Mrs. Benson gave Leo a full update on the ongoing renovation and restoration of the St. Louis Cathedral, a years-long project that aims to repair structural damage from years of wear and tear. Archbishop Checchio received Leo's permission to name the upcoming renovation of St. Louis Cathedral rectory the Pope Leo XIV Center for Evangelization in honor of the pope and his family, who lived in New Orleans and attended Mass at the Cathedral, a gesture that was well received by Leo.
Mrs. Benson also expressed her hope that Leo would visit New Orleans during a future United States visit and presented him with a New Orleans Saints jersey, among other gifts. Leo blessed the group and personally handed each attendee a blessed rosary.
"We were extremely grateful and humbled that Pope Leo spent such quality time with us in his private library," Mrs. Benson said. "He cares deeply about the people of New Orleans and state of Louisiana, where he has such close family ties. He offered his prayers and blessings. It was quite moving to be with him."
Following the audience, the group proceeded to the U.S. Embassy of the Holy See to meet with Ambassador Brian Burch, where they discussed potential programs between the Holy See, the city of New Orleans and state of Louisiana.
