Pope Leo XIV Marks Birthday ⁢with Ecumenical Party, Reflects on divine Will

September 16, 2024

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his birthday on September 14th with an ‍ecumenical gathering ⁢at the São Paulo basilica, following a commemoration of 21st-century martyrs. The celebration included greetings ⁣from ⁤representatives of other Christian churches⁣ and communities, and a reception with cardinals and dignitaries.

A Fortuitous Alignment with the Feast of the exaltation of the Cross

cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, offered congratulations to the ⁤Pope on his birthday. Pope Leo XIV noted the meaningful coincidence of ⁤his birthday falling on the feast⁤ of the Exaltation of the Cross, viewing it as perhaps providential.He shared a personal reflection, stating he has consistently striven to align his life with divine guidance, echoing the sentiment of “not my will, but yours, Lord,” a principle he has⁣ held since the begining⁢ of his vocation.

Call for Unity and Gospel Proclamation

The Pope ⁣expressed his hope that the enthusiasm demonstrated by the faithful during this Jubilee year⁢ will translate into a renewed commitment⁣ to proclaiming the Gospel.He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and unity among Christian denominations, encouraging⁣ all ⁢to act as “witnesses of unity, ‍charity and hope.” The day’s events ⁤included a brief toast, a birthday cake, and a chanted hymn.

Before returning to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV took time to greet the crowds gathered outside the basilica, ⁤demonstrating his continued connection with the peopel.