Toronto Maple Leafs fans have been hoping and praying for a Stanley Cup for more than 40 years.

And now there is proof that people in high places are pulling for the team as well.

Toronto Archbishop Thomas Collins sported a personalized Toronto Maple Leafs jersey in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on Thursday ahead of his elevation to Cardinal this weekend.

"It's safe to say there are more than a few Toronto Maple Leafs fans in the pews of our parishes in the Archdiocese of Toronto," Collins said from Rome on Thursday. "This is a fun way to let them, and all Catholics in our diocese, know that I am thinking of them at this time. I am truly proud and humbled to serve them all."

Collins, along with 22 other bishops, is to be elevated into the College of Cardinals. The appointment was announced on Jan. 6 and he will officially assume that post Saturday in a Consistory, led by Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter's Basilica.

Last week, the Archdiocese of Montreal placed an ad in Montreal's French language newspapers urging Montrealers to pray for the team.

The Maple Leafs currently sit in eighth place with 64 points.