From collectible coins to Chicago-style shirts, these papal-themed products are as American-made as the new Pontiff
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Few things scream “America” louder than capitalism. So it really shouldn’t come as a shock that, when it was announced last week the new Pope is a U.S. citizen, the internet exploded with red, white, and blue Pope Leo XIV merch.
We’re talking everything from papal-themed American flags (we’re 90% sure that breaks at least three commandments) to t-shirts featuring the Chicago-born pontiff dual-wielding a glizzy and a pilsner. Yes, really. And no, we’re not even going to try to explain some of the memes floating around — just know that Photoshop is working overtime (but you can check out some of our favorites here).
To some, it’s all a little weird. Maybe even sacrilegious. Possibly a sign of the end times. But to others? It’s a prime example of some good ole’ patriotism. And honestly, can we blame them?
In the nearly 2,000-year history of the papacy, there’s never been an American Pope. Sure, the United States wasn’t even a thing until 1776, but who’s counting? For U.S. Catholics, it’s a big gosh dang deal.
Whether you think it’s cringeworthy or iconic, you have to admit — it’s peak America. So if you’re looking to commemorate a bit of faith and freedom, we’ve rounded up the most patriotic Pope Leo XIV gear the internet has to offer. Think mugs, trading cards, and sweatshirts from sites like Etsy and Amazon. Shop the holiest merch below before it ascends out of stock.