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

Pope Delivers Angelus Prayer, Offers Message of Gratitude on Milestone Birthday
Thousands of faithful from around the world gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday to celebrate the 70th birthday of Pope Leo XIV, marking a milestone for a pontiff who has become one of the most recognizable and reform minded leaders of the modern Catholic Church.
As church bells rang across Vatican City, Pope Leo appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer, smiling warmly at the sea of pilgrims waving flags, holding rosaries, and carrying colorful banners that read “Buon Compleanno, Papa Leo!” (“Happy Birthday, Pope Leo!”).

“I thank you all from the depths of my heart for your prayers, your love, and your presence today,” Pope Leo said, addressing the crowd. “This journey we walk together is a gift, and every day is a blessing.”

The Holy Father also used the occasion to reflect on themes of humility, service, and global unity hallmarks of his papacy.
A Modern Papacy with Global Reach
Born September 15, 1955, in Palermo, Italy, Pope Leo XIV born Cardinal Giacomo Bianchi was elected as the 268th pope in March 2021, following the death of Pope Francis. Known for his intellectual depth and pastoral compassion, Leo XIV has spent much of his pontificate focusing on climate justice, interfaith dialogue, and the digital ethics of artificial intelligence.
His 70th birthday marks not only a personal milestone but also a moment of reflection for the Catholic Church, as the Vatican continues navigating major global challenges, from war and migration to economic inequality and environmental degradation.
A Celebration with Spiritual and Cultural Significance
The atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square was both festive and reverent. Choirs sang hymns in Latin, while delegations from various countries offered birthday greetings. Among those present were diplomatic envoys, cardinals, and youth groups from across Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo will celebrate a private Mass later in the evening with members of the Roman Curia and close family members.
A Life of Service
Before his election to the papacy, Cardinal Bianchi served as Archbishop of Milan and was widely respected for his work on social justice issues and his role in Vatican diplomatic missions. Since becoming pope, Leo XIV has issued several key encyclicals, including Fraternitas Mundi (2022), which called for renewed international cooperation in the face of global crises.
Today’s birthday event is seen not just as a celebration of age, but as an acknowledgment of a life devoted to faith, peace, and reform.
Looking Ahead
With rumors of a future Apostolic Constitution addressing church decentralization and ongoing talks around clerical reforms, many within the Vatican believe Pope Leo’s influence is far from waning as he enters his eighth decade.

“At 70, Pope Leo is as energetic and visionary as ever,” said Vatican spokesperson Fr. Matteo Caprini. “He remains deeply committed to shepherding the Church into the future.”