Overview

• From the Apostolic Palace window, he noted turning 70 and thanked God, his parents and all who prayed for him.
• St. Peter’s Square drew thousands, with a prominent Peruvian presence and banners from Monsefú in Chiclayo, where he once served as bishop.
• On the eve, an unusual St. Peter’s concert featured Pharrell Williams, John Legend, Karol G and Andrea Bocelli, with crowds singing happy birthday.
• Vatican outlets promoted documentaries on his years in Peru and in Chicago and published extracts of his first interview tied to a new Peru‑edited biography.
• He presided over an afternoon commemoration for 21st‑century martyrs, received praise from Italian leaders for his appeals to peace, and reports indicate early travel plans, including a possible Turkey visit, as well as a first papal publication in preparation.