Pope Leo XIV celebrates his 71st birthday Monday, September 14, receiving prayers and well wishes from Catholics and Church leaders around the world.

Born in Chicago in 1955, the Holy Father marks his birthday after a year in which peace, Christian unity, and the dignity of the human person have remained central to his pontificate.

The Italian Bishops’ Conference offered its greetings on behalf of the local Churches of Italy, expressing gratitude for Pope Leo’s ministry. The bishops particularly noted his emphasis on encountering Christ personally through faith, proclaiming the Gospel, strengthening missionary communities, and fostering welcoming parishes.

Peace and reconciliation have also remained consistent themes in the Pope’s public ministry. Since calling for an “unarmed and disarming” peace following his election, Pope Leo has repeatedly urged nations and individuals to pursue dialogue, forgiveness, and unity.

Those priorities have accompanied the Holy Father on his Apostolic Journeys. His travels have included Türkiye and Lebanon, where he addressed Christian unity and peace, as well as visits to Monaco, Algeria, and Spain.

Pope Leo also closed the Jubilee Year 2025 on January 6 by shutting the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. His first encyclical, Magnifica humanitas, turned attention to artificial intelligence and the responsibility to ensure technological development respects human freedom, dignity, and the common good.

He also completed Dilexi te, an Apostolic Exhortation begun by Pope Francis concerning the Church’s love and care for the poor.

As Pope Leo begins his 72nd year of life, the faithful can join Catholics throughout the world in praying for the Holy Father and his continued service to Christ and His Church.