Celebrating Pope Leo XIV’s 70th Birthday: A Pontificate of Peace and Faith
This Sunday 14th of September, our parish joined the universal Church in celebrating the 70th birthday of Pope Leo XIV, reflecting on the remarkable first months of his pontificate. Elected on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native with Peruvian citizenship, has emerged as a shepherd dedicated to peace, spirituality, and closeness to the faithful. Below, we highlight eight defining moments from the beginning of his Petrine ministry, as reported by Vatican News.
A Humble Beginning: The Inauguration
On May 18, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received the pallium and Fisherman’s Ring during his inaugural Mass. Visibly moved, he shared his unworthiness for the role, saying, “I was chosen without any merits. With fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother who wishes to be a servant of your faith and your joy.” His words set the tone for a pontificate rooted in humility and unity, calling for all to walk together in God’s love as one family.
A Message of Peace
Just days earlier, on May 8, 2025, the newly elected Pope greeted the faithful from the Loggia of Blessings at St. Peter’s Basilica with the words of the Risen Christ: “Peace be with you all, dearest brothers and sisters.” This greeting underscored his mission to bring Christ’s peace to hearts, families, and the world, a theme that has defined his early papacy.
First Journey: Seeking Mary’s Guidance
On the third day of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV made his first trip outside Rome to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Genazzano. Reflecting on his earlier visits as Prior General of the Order of St. Augustine, he expressed his deep trust in Mary’s intercession, stating, “I greatly desired to come here in these first days of the new ministry entrusted to me by the Church.” This pilgrimage highlighted his devotion to Mary and his commitment to continuing St. Peter’s mission.
A Voice for Peace
Pope Leo XIV has consistently called for peace amid global conflicts. He has offered the Vatican as a neutral venue for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, notably during a July 9 meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and earlier discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. His repeated appeals to end the “atrocities of war” in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa reflect a heart attuned to the suffering of the world.
A Return to Tradition: Castel Gandolfo
In July, the Pope revived a papal tradition by retreating to Castel Gandolfo for a “working vacation.” The first pope to vacation there in 13 years, he resided in the Barberini Palace, celebrated Masses in local churches, and prayed the Angelus at Piazza della Libertà. Even during rest, he continued pastoral duties, including hosting President Zelenskyy and a Ukrainian delegation, demonstrating his commitment to both spiritual and diplomatic roles.
Inspiring the Youth
The Youth Jubilee in Rome drew over a million young people from across the globe to Tor Vergata. Pope Leo XIV urged them to see Christ in one another, proclaiming, “Friendship is about changing the world. Friendship is the path to peace.” After Mass and the Angelus, he spontaneously addressed the youth again, calling them “the salt of the earth and the light of the world,” entrusting them with a mission to transform the world through love.
A Prayer for Peace at Mentorella
During a private visit on August 19 to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace in Mentorella—a place cherished by St. John Paul II—Pope Leo XIV prayed for world peace and lit a candle before the sanctuary’s patroness. Meeting with Polish Resurrectionist priests who care for the site, he deepened his connection to the Church’s universal mission.
A Heart for the Poor
Following in the footsteps of Pope Francis, Leo XIV has prioritized the poor, emphasizing their centrality in the Church’s mission. His actions reflect a commitment to serving the marginalized, ensuring the Church remains a beacon of hope for the neediest.
A Shepherd for Our Times
As we celebrate Pope Leo XIV’s 70th birthday, these moments reveal a pontificate grounded in prayer, peace, and pastoral care. From his calls for dialogue to his devotion to Mary and his outreach to the young and the poor, he leads as a pastor attentive to the signs of the times. Let us pray for his continued guidance as he shepherds the Church toward unity and peace.
Source: www.vaticannews.va
