Pope Robert Prevost Stuns Church and Fans Alike with Celtic Message During Acceptance Speech

In an unprecedented and spirited moment that has reverberated through both religious and sporting communities around the world, newly elected Pope Robert I (formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost) shocked the global audience during his first public address.

Standing on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica before tens of thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions more watching across the globe, Pope Robert began his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing but not before making an unexpected nod to his personal football allegiance.

“Before I bless the world,” he said with a warm smile, “let me bless the Bhoysfaithful in heart, strong in spirit, united always. Celtic, you’ll never walk alone.”

The five-line mention of Celtic was brief, but its impact was immediate. Gasps, cheers, and disbelief echoed not only across the square but online, as social media platforms exploded with reactions. Many applauded the Pope’s honesty and charm, seeing it as a refreshing human touch in the solemnity of the papal transition. Celtic supporters around the world have embraced him as one of their own.

“Is this real?” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “The Pope is a Celtic man? I’ve never felt so spiritually seen!”

Others, including prominent clergy and Vatican insiders, admitted they were taken aback by the moment, but appreciated its sincerity.

“It was certainly unexpected,” said Monsignor Luigi Falcone, a longtime Vatican official. “But if it speaks to his character, we may be entering a papacy marked by authenticity and connection with the people.”

From Michigan to the Vatican

Born in Chicago and raised in Michigan, Pope Robert Prevost spent years serving in various capacities across Peru and Rome before rising through the ecclesiastical ranks. Known for his diplomatic skill, gentle demeanor, and commitment to social justice, few expected his papal address to include a sports reference—let alone a shout-out to a Glasgow-based football team.

Reports suggest the Pope’s admiration for Celtic dates back to his years of missionary work in Latin America, where Scottish expatriates and their football culture left a lasting impression on him.

A Bold Papal First

This marks the first time a pontiff has openly acknowledged a football club during an inaugural speech. While popes have previously been known to support clubs privately Pope John Paul II was said to have a soft spot for Polish team Cracovia, and Pope Francis is famously a supporter of San Lorenzo in Argentina Pope Robert’s bold public endorsement sets a new precedent.

Vatican spokesperson Father Matteo Renzi clarified that the remark was made “in good spirit and meant to reflect the Pope’s humanity and humor.”

“The Holy Father understands the passion of sport, its power to unite communities, and the joy it brings to millions,” Renzi said. “He simply chose to share a personal moment with the world.”

Reactions from Glasgow

Back in Scotland, Celtic FC responded almost immediately with a jubilant post: “We welcome Pope Robert I to the Celtic family with open arms. Hail Hail, Your Holiness!”

Club fans gathered outside Celtic Park in celebration, some jokingly suggesting a special Vatican-friendly match kit be created. Celtic’s manager even weighed in during a press conference: “We’re honored. If he ever wants to come to Paradise [Celtic Park], he has a seat waiting.”

A New Kind of Papacy

While it’s unclear how this moment will influence Pope Robert’s wider papal mission, it’s already clear that his style will be unlike any before him. With just a few unexpected words, he’s won the hearts of football fans, added a fresh layer of relatability to the papacy, and sparked conversation across both sacred and secular worlds.

In a time where unity, humor, and humanity are often in short supply, Pope Robert’s Celtic salute may well be a sign of a modern shepherd for a modern world.