Pope Leo XIV Learns the ‘6-7’ Meme from Young Catholics

During a recent visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV engaged in an unexpected cultural exchange. A group of young Catholics introduced him to the viral ‘6-7’ motion. This internet phenomenon has puzzled many over the age of 16 for over a year.

Don Roberto Fiscer, a 49-year-old priest and Catholic influencer from Genoa, Italy, was leading children preparing for confirmation at the Vatican. When Pope Leo arrived, Fiscer inquired, “What is it that you kids do?” In a video that went viral, the young Catholics enthusiastically demonstrated the ‘6-7’ gesture. The pope, entertained, mimicked their gestures and repeated, “6-7.”

Understanding the ‘6-7’ Meme

The ‘6-7’ meme is more than a simple hand gesture; it has roots in a drill rap song “Doot Doot” by Skrilla. The song includes the lyric “six-seven.” This phrase was later used with a TikTok video analyzing the height of LaMelo Ball, a Charlotte Hornets basketball player. The commentator noted Ball’s unique movement on the court, mentioning his height, which triggered the song. Young fans added the hand movement, spreading the meme across Gen Alpha.

For many adults, the meaning of “6-7” remains baffling. The gesture is a tribute to the meme’s origins in popular culture rather than having significant meaning. Its popularity underscores its role as a generational hallmark, gaining traction among those born in 2010 or later.

The Meme’s Decline

The impact of the ‘6-7’ meme has diminished as more adults began to discuss or use it. Actor Amy Poehler remarked on her podcast, Good Hang, that the meme had lost appeal. Once the pope, one of Western civilization’s longstanding figures, adopted it, the meme further waned in allure. Its charm faded, marking the end of its widespread popularity.