Catholic Priest Presents Mark Pope’s Jersey to Pope Francis at the Vatican

In a heartwarming gesture that has captured the attention of fans worldwide, Catholic priest Jim Sichko of the Diocese of Lexington presented a special gift to Pope Francis during his recent visit to the Vatican. Two days before his trip, Sichko reached out to University of Kentucky president Eli Capilouto with a unique request – a basketball jersey bearing the last name of newly appointed Kentucky men’s basketball coach, Mark Pope.

Armed with the No. 23 jersey, representing Pope’s position as the 23rd head coach in Kentucky men’s basketball history, Sichko attended Pope Francis’ General Audience and presented the gift to the pontiff. Describing Pope Francis as “delighted” by the gesture, Sichko shared that the Pope was particularly intrigued by the jersey, keeping it on his lap instead of passing it off to his assistants as he usually does with gifts.

This isn’t the first time Sichko has presented a gift to Pope Francis, having done so every six months for the past eight years. However, the basketball jersey has garnered more attention than any of his previous offerings, with fans and commentators expressing their excitement and support for the Kentucky basketball team.

Mark Pope, who recently left BYU to take on the role of head coach at Kentucky, has yet to personally react to the news. However, Sichko hopes that he will find as much joy in the story as fans have. As Sichko aptly puts it, “This is a feel-good, loveable story that brings a smile to people’s faces in a time when the world needs it most.” With the Pope on their side, fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting season ahead for the Kentucky Wildcats.