Pope Leo XIV marked his 70th birthday on March 10, 2024, by reflecting on the significant challenges he has faced since becoming pontiff. In an interview conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen for her upcoming biography, the Pope expressed that he has encountered a “huge learning curve” and likened his experience to jumping “in on the deep end of the pool very quickly.” The interview, released on his birthday, revealed his candid thoughts on various issues, including the widening income gap and social justice.
During the interview, Pope Leo lamented the growing disparity between the working class and corporate leaders. He specifically referenced recent discussions around Elon Musk potentially becoming the world’s first trillionaire, stating, “If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble.” This statement underscores the Pope’s concern for the social implications of extreme wealth accumulation.
Interestingly, the timing of the interview coincided with a light show over the Vatican, organized by Musk’s brother’s company, Nova Sky Stories, which featured 3,000 drones illustrating iconic images from the Sistine Chapel, including the face of Pope Francis.
Dual Heritage and Sports Traditions
Pope Leo, who holds dual citizenship in the United States and Peru, shared how his 20 years of missionary work in Peru have shaped his appreciation for the Latin American church and for Pope Francis’ ministry. The Pope reflected on his experiences growing up in Chicago, drawing parallels to his potential loyalties in future World Cup matches. He emphasized the importance of maintaining an open and friendly competitive spirit, stating, “We learned, even in sports, to have an open, dialogical, friendly and not angry competitive stance on things like that.”
In discussing his role as pontiff, Leo acknowledged that while he has acclimated to pastoral duties, he still faces the complexities of being a global leader. He remarked, “There’s still a huge learning curve ahead of me,” indicating his awareness of the weight of his responsibilities.
Birthday Celebrations at the Vatican
The Pope celebrated his milestone birthday with a public gathering at St. Peter’s Square, where he was greeted with giant “Happy birthday” banners in multiple languages, balloons, and enthusiastic congratulations from the gathered faithful. Groups of Peruvian believers, adorned in traditional attire, added to the vibrant atmosphere.
“Dear friends, it seems you know today I have turned 70,” he said, eliciting cheers from the crowd. He expressed gratitude towards the Lord, his parents, and those who remembered him in their prayers.
Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2023 at the age of 69, became the youngest pope since Karol Wojtyla, known as Pope John Paul II, was elected at 58. As he navigates his role during a challenging time for both geopolitical and internal church matters, many in the square expressed their support. Lorenzo Vecchio, a member of a Catholic university group, noted, “He definitely needs a lot of support, because he has to carry on a pontificate during a particularly difficult period.”
Pope Leo XIV’s reflections and the warmth of his birthday celebrations highlight the unique challenges and responsibilities he faces as the first American pope in history, as well as the hope and support he receives from the global Catholic community.
