Pope Leo XIV turns 70, thanks all those who prayed for him
He spent his birthday afternoon presiding over an ecumenical prayer service in honour of 21st century martyrs
Pope Leo XIV leads the Angelus prayer on his 70th birthday, from the window of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican on Sunday. Reuters
Unlock Exclusive Insights with The Tribune Premium
Take your experience further with Premium access. Thought-provoking Opinions, Expert Analysis, In-depth Insights and other Member Only Benefits
Advertisement
Pope Leo XIV marked his 70th birthday on Sunday by thanking God, his parents and all those who prayed for him.
Leo saw giant “Happy birthday” banners, balloons and congratulatory signs held up by the faithful gathered in St Peter's Square for his traditional noon blessing.
Advertisement
“My dears, it seems you know today I have turned 70,” Leo said to cheers. “I thank the Lord, my parents and all those who remembered me in their prayers.”
Later, Leo was spending his birthday afternoon presiding over an ecumenical prayer service in honour of 21st century martyrs.
When he was elected last May at age 69, the former Robert Prevost was the youngest pope since 1978, when Karol Wojtyla was elected Pope John Paul II at age 58.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement