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A long-time friend of Pope Leo XIV has recalled a humorous incident from two months into his pontificate, when the Pope called his bank in South Chicago to update his phone number and address.
The Pope, formerly known as Robert Prevost, successfully answered every security question posed by the teller. However, he was informed that to change his contact details, he would be required to visit the branch in person.
“Well, I’m not going to be able to do that,” Pope Leo reportedly replied, according to the Rev Tom McCarthy, who shared the anecdote at a parish in Naperville.
Despite the Pope’s request to complete the update over the phone, noting he had already passed the security checks, the employee refused, citing strict bank policy.
“Would it matter to you if I told you I’m Pope Leo?” the Pontiff apparently asked. Thinking she was the target of a prank call, the employee replied, “Oh really?” and promptly hung up, according to the Pope's brother, John Prevost.
The account information was eventually updated after the bank’s president was made aware of the unique situation.
"Could you imagine being known as the woman who hung up on the Pope?"
— Chay Bowes (@BowesChay) May 7, 2026
Pope Leo XIV couldn't update his bank info: the support agent didn't believe he was the pontiff.
He gave his secular name, answered questions, and then said he was the Pope.
She hung up. pic.twitter.com/GNa4RyC5ap