Pope Leo XIV Celebrates 70th Birthday in St. Peter’s Square

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his 70th birthday with gratitude toward God, his parents, and those who prayed for him, marking the occasion with traditional blessings and an ecumenical prayer service honoring 21st-century martyrs. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he is the first American pope and was the youngest pope elected since 1978, ascending to the papacy in May 2025. His background includes a strong Catholic upbringing, academic achievements in canon law, and extensive pastoral and missionary work in Peru, where he served as a bishop. The pope's leadership is recognized for promoting reconciliation among nations, interreligious dialogue, and tolerance, earning congratulations from leaders such as Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who also expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation with the Holy See. His birthday celebrations in St. Peter’s Square featured multicultural expressions of support, highlighting his connection to diverse communities and the challenges of leading the Church during complex geopolitical and internal times. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni also acknowledged the pope’s inspirational teachings, underscoring his significance in global and religious affairs.