Pope Leo XIV made a notable surprise appearance at a rave held in Košice, Slovakia, on November 8, 2023, to celebrate the 75th birthday of Archbishop Bernard Bober. The event featured a Catholic priest, Padre Guilherme, as the DJ, blending an engaging atmosphere of electronic dance music with a spiritual message.
The gathering took place outside the historic St. Elisabeth’s Cathedral, a 14th-century landmark that served as a backdrop for the vibrant celebration. Footage from the event quickly gained traction on social media platforms, showcasing Pope Leo’s enthusiastic opening remarks. He encouraged attendees to share their faith, concluding with a heartfelt “Amen” right before the music kicked in.
Pope Leo XIV, who assumed the papacy in May 2025, is the first American to hold this position. He has become known for his innovative approach to engaging younger audiences, often merging elements of pop culture with traditional Catholic teachings. For example, he previously honored teenage internet personality Carlo Acutis, dubbing him “God’s influencer” and canonizing him as the first millennial saint. His ability to connect with the digital generation has resonated with many believers globally.
Padre Guilherme, the DJ for the night, has been an active figure in the Catholic community since 1999. He began his DJ career during the pandemic, streaming sets that combine techno music with sacred and folk elements. His belief that music can unite individuals from diverse backgrounds reflects a broader vision shared by Pope Leo. As he stated, “Raves bring people together, just as faith does.”
The rave attracted a lively crowd, all eager to celebrate Archbishop Bober’s milestone. Attendees cheered as Pope Leo appeared on screens, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The event not only celebrated a significant birthday but also demonstrated how faith can intersect with modern culture.
In addition to his duties as a DJ, Padre Guilherme has garnered a following on Spotify, with over 86,000 monthly listeners. His remixes of traditional hymns, including “Ave Maria,” have gained popularity, further bridging the gap between contemporary music and faith-based themes.
Commentary on social media highlighted the unique connection between the Pope and Chicago, the birthplace of House music. One commenter noted, “The Pope is from Chicago, where House music was born. Yeeezzz electronic music, here we come!” This playful remark underscores the excitement surrounding Pope Leo’s innovative engagements.
As the rave concluded, it became clear that Pope Leo XIV’s appearance had made a significant impact, reminding attendees of the power of faith and community in an unconventional setting. The event not only celebrated Archbishop Bober’s legacy but also marked another chapter in the evolving relationship between the Catholic Church and contemporary culture.
