Pope Leo XIV marked his 70th birthday on Sunday by thanking God, his parents and all those who prayed for him. Leo saw giant “Happy birthday” banners, balloons and congratulatory signs held up by the faithful gathered in St Peter's Square for his traditional noon blessing. “My dears, it seems you know today I have turned 70,” Leo said to cheers. “I thank the Lord, my parents and all those who remembered me in their prayers.” Leo was spending his birthday afternoon presiding over an ecumenical prayer service in honour of 21st century martyrs.