Chicago Attorney Gifts Icon to Pope Leo XIV

A custom-made religious icon now rests within the private living quarters of Pope Leo XIV.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Catholicism

Gouache-painted illustration of a minimalist wooden religious icon resting on a plain shelf, evoking a sense of calm reflection. — Chicago attorney Michael Airdo commissioned a custom religious icon for his longtime friend, Pope Leo XIV, now displayed at the Apostolic Palace. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Chicago attorney Michael Airdo commissioned a unique icon of Our Mother of Good Counsel for his longtime friend, Pope Leo XIV. The religious artwork was delivered to the Pope at the Apostolic Palace.

Why it matters

The gift commemorates a decades-long friendship between the two men that began when the Pope joined the Midwest Augustinians in 1977. It serves as a personal token of their enduring connection.

Chicago religious iconographer Joseph Malham created the piece in about 10 days, spending an additional 3 or 4 days on jewelry details. The icon is crafted from wood using traditional gold leaf and egg tempera techniques.

The players

Michael Airdo

Michael Airdo is a Chicago-based attorney who maintains a long-standing personal relationship with the Pope.

Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV is the head of the Catholic Church who has been connected to the Midwest Augustinians since 1977.

Joseph Malham

Joseph Malham is a professional religious iconographer based in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago.

The details

The icon was painted by local artist Joseph Malham in his Andersonville kitchen before being transported to Rome. Pope Leo XIV has placed the completed work on a shelf inside his private bedroom.

1977: Pope Leo XIV joins the Midwest Augustinians.
August 26, 2026: Pope Leo XIV sends a personal letter to Joseph Malham.

Culture Shift

This commission follows the historical tradition of private individuals gifting religious works for personal papal devotion. It highlights the enduring connection between local lay professionals and the Vatican hierarchy.

The creation of this icon in Andersonville showcases the craftsmanship currently present within Chicago's religious art community. Local residents may be interested in the traditional techniques used by artists like Joseph Malham for their own devotional needs.

The takeaway

The piece demonstrates the intersection of personal friendship and traditional religious art. Individuals seeking to commission similar works should prioritize finding artists experienced in traditional methods like egg tempera.