In a striking demonstration of his rapport with youth and contemporary culture, Pope Leo XIV embraced a popular TikTok trend during a recent visit to Rome. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday, May 16, has since captivated social media, amassing over 26 million views within a short period.
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The Catholic leader’s interaction occurred amidst a gathering of approximately 1,000 young individuals from the Archdiocese of Genoa, who were in the capital to prepare for their sacrament of confirmation. A video of the event was shared on TikTok by Don Roberto Fiscer shortly after, capturing the Pope’s engagement with the viral “6-7” meme.
Don Fiscer expressed the sentiment behind the encounter, noting that the Pope’s participation demonstrated his connection with the youth. “Since the Pope is one of us, and we greet each other like this, he must learn this greeting too, especially because kids all over the world greet each other like this,” he explained. “So the kids made us feel close to them, and we made him feel that we consider him one of us.” This identifiable connection is a testament to the Pope’s efforts to engage with younger generations in meaningful ways.
The “6-7” trend has its roots in the catchy song “Doot Doot (6 7)” by musician Skrilla, which features the phrase prominently. The trend gained momentum in 2025 and quickly became linked with various humorous contexts, especially among younger TikTok users. Popular basketball player LaMelo Ball has also been associated with the trend, largely due to his height of 6 feet 7 inches.
As the “6-7” phrase swept across TikTok, users began integrating it into a range of comedic videos and casual conversations. Some creators have tied the phrase to basketball, while others have used it in jokes about test scores or to enhance lip-sync performances. This versatility has cemented its place in modern internet culture, appealing especially to the youthful demographic.
In light of its widespread appeal, Dictionary.com even named “67” its word of the year in 2025. The meme’s influence transcended social media, prompting numerous brands, including major restaurant chains like Pizza Hut and TGI Fridays, to implement it in their marketing campaigns.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, made headlines when he became the first American pontiff, having been elected as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. His prior roles include serving as the head of the Augustinian order and his appointment to the Dicastery for Bishops by the late Pope Francis in 2023. The position involves overseeing the selection of bishops globally, highlighting the Pope’s profound influence in church governance.
Additionally, Pope Leo XIV has garnered international experience, most notably in Peru, where he served as bishop in the city of Chiclayo. This rich background lends him a unique perspective on global issues faced by the Church today.
The Pope’s recent TikTok moment serves a dual purpose; it not only portrays his efforts to stay culturally relevant but also reflects a deeper strategy of engaging youth in the Catholic faith. By joining in on the “6-7” trend, he reinforces the idea that faith and modern culture can coexist, aiming to inspire a new generation of followers.
As the Pope continues his mission, moments like this indicate his understanding of the importance of being relatable in today’s digital age. Supporting a strong connection with young Catholics suggests an evolving narrative within the Church, where traditional values can meld with contemporary expressions, fostering a vibrant community of faith.