“The former St. Mary of the Assumption building is unique for its connection to the youth of the first American pope, but it is sadly not unique as an example of an empty former house of worship,” said Kendra Parzen, advocacy manager for the preservation group Landmarks Illinois.

Pope Leo XIV, the first person from the United States to lead the Catholic Church, is taking on a financial headache in his new position. White smoke billowed from the Vatican at about 6 p.m. on Thursday as the papal conclave made its decision about who should become the leader of the Catholic Church.