Celebrating the 70th birthday of the Pope, his siblings and friends in the Chicago area will join in the festivities.
Pope Leo XIV, the esteemed religious leader, is set to celebrate his 70th birthday this year. The weeklong celebrations, held in the zones of his parish in Trujillo, Peru, during his priesthood, are a testament to the love and respect he has garnered worldwide.
The festivities, which were more extravagant than typical Peruvian birthday celebrations, were marked by dancing, music, and fellowship. However, contrary to the extravagance of his adulthood celebrations, his childhood birthday parties were described as more subdued.
During the week, each zone hosted a night of partying, with contemporary dance music played from a boom box. The dancing was a significant part of the celebrations, with Pope Leo himself being seen dancing at his own birthday parties.
The family of Pope Leo XIV, including his brother John Prevost, will gather at Aurelio's Pizza in Homewood, Illinois, a week before his birthday. Aurelio's Pizza, a popular local eatery, started serving a "Pope-roni" pizza after his election, and Pope Leo himself stopped by before becoming pope.
In the 1990s, the weeks-long birthday celebrations for the future Pope Leo XIV took place primarily at the Augustinian monastery Maria Eich near Munich. Here, he celebrated his 50th birthday with fellow brothers, family, and friends.
Pope Leo XIV's educational journey began at Augustinian Villanova University in Philadelphia, where he graduated in 1977. He then went on to the Catholic Theological Union in Hyde Park, finishing his seminary studies. Afterward, he moved to Rome for school and ordination to the priesthood in 1982.
Following his ordination, Pope Leo earned a licentiate, then a doctorate, in canon law at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in 1984 and 1987, respectively. His hard work and dedication to his studies have been instrumental in his rise through the ranks of the Catholic Church.
In 2014, Pope Leo returned to Peru as bishop of the Chiclayo Diocese, holding Vatican positions simultaneously. He was recalled to Rome to be elevated to cardinal in 2023.
For his 70th birthday this year, Pope Leo XIV will be remembered in a prayer and reflection video called "5 minutes with God." This heartfelt tribute is a fitting way to honour a man who has dedicated his life to serving others and spreading the teachings of his faith.
John Prevost, Pope Leo's brother, plans to send a photo of the gathering at Aurelio's Pizza to Pope Leo on his birthday. This heartwarming gesture is a testament to the love and respect the family has for their brother and Pope.
Pope Leo's ability to climb stairs at the age of 69, as noted during his visit with young people at the Jubilee of Youth in early August, is a testament to his vitality and zest for life. His dedication to his faith and his love for his people continue to inspire millions around the world.
As we celebrate Pope Leo XIV's 70th birthday, let us remember his life of service, his dedication to his faith, and his unwavering commitment to spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church. May his examples of humility, compassion, and love continue to guide us all.
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