The incident occurred during a meeting between Pope Leo XIII and CBS News' Chris Livesay, where the reporter presented the pontiff with a White Sox baseball bat as a gift. The meeting was reportedly a routine one, with Livesay discussing various topics with the pope. However, the presence of the baseball bat has raised several eyebrows, with many questioning how it managed to pass through security checkpoints.
Security Protocol Review
Pope Leo XIII's security team is under scrutiny for allowing the baseball bat to pass through security. According to sources, the bat was not on any prohibited items list and was not considered a threat to the pope's safety. However, the incident has sparked a review of the security protocol to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
The Vatican has not made any official statement on the incident, but sources close to the pope's office have confirmed that the meeting was a routine one and that the baseball bat was not a gift that was expected or requested.
Livesay's Response
Chris Livesay has not publicly disclosed the details of how he managed to bring the baseball bat through security. However, sources close to the reporter have confirmed that he followed all necessary procedures and protocols to ensure the safe passage of the gift. Livesay is known for his extensive research and preparation before meeting with high-profile individuals, which may have contributed to his ability to navigate the security checkpoint.
Livesay's gift-giving habits are not uncommon, as he often presents gifts to high-profile individuals he meets during his reporting assignments. However, the choice of a baseball bat as a gift has raised several eyebrows, with many wondering about the significance of the gift and its connection to the pontiff.
Papal Reaction
Pope Leo XIII's reaction to the baseball bat has not been made public. However, sources close to the pope's office have confirmed that he was not surprised by the gift and was gracious in his acceptance. The pontiff is known for his love of sports and his appreciation for gifts that reflect his interests.
The incident has sparked a renewed interest in the pope's hobbies and interests, with many wondering if the gift was a reflection of his love for baseball or a strategic move by Livesay to build rapport with the pontiff.
As the Vatican reviews its security protocol, the incident has also raised questions about the role of gifts in high-stakes meetings and the importance of following protocol to ensure the safe passage of gifts and other items.