VATICAN CITY, Sept. 14 (UPI) – Pope Leo XIV acknowledged a ”huge learning curve” in his first several months as pontiff while celebrating his 70th birthday Sunday in St. Peter’s Square. The pope, the first American to hold the position, described the role as akin to “jumping in on the deep end of the pool very quickly” in remarks released by the Vatican.
Leo, who also holds Peruvian citizenship after 20 years of missionary work in the country, expressed gratitude to those who remembered him on his birthday. “Dear friends, it truly seems you know today I have turned 70,” he said to cheering onlookers. “I thank the Lord, my parents and all those who remembered me in their prayers.”
The celebration included large “Happy birthday” banners in multiple languages displayed by believers, and a vibrant display from groups of Peruvian faithful, some in traditional dance attire.
In an interview conducted over the summer with Elise Ann Allen of Vatican News, and published on Crux and El Comerico, Leo also addressed growing economic inequality, citing the potential for elon musk to become the world’s first trillionaire.”If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble,” he stated.
Promoted to the papacy by Pope Francis in 2023, Leo said he remains confident in his pastoral abilities but recognizes the challenges of leading on a global stage. “There’s still a huge learning curve ahead of me,” he added.
