Pope Leo celebrates 70th birthday

VATICAN CITY (NBC, KYMA) - Pope Leo celebrated his 70th birthday Sunday. The Catholic faithful filled St. Peter's Square at the Vatican to offer their well wishes.

As Pope Leo stood on the balcony overlooking the square for his traditional noon blessing, he saw a sea of people, many waving balloons, and "Happy Birthday" banners in all languages to mark the milestone.

Groups of Peruvian believers, including dancers in traditional attire, were out in force, and a rendition of "Happy Birthday" rang out across the square.

Pope Leo addressed the crowd to cheers saying, "My dears, it seems you know today I have turned 70."

The pope added, "I thank the lord, my parents, and I am grateful to all those who remembered me in their prayers."

Later in the day, the pope was scheduled to preside over an ecumenical prayer service in honor of 21st century martyrs.

Pope Leo is the first American pope, and the youngest pontiff to serve in four decades.