DOLTON, Ill. (WLS) — Sunday marks Pope Leo XIV’s 70th birthday.
The pontiff, born in Chicago and raised in south suburban Dolton, received a special treat as he entered a new decade.
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A new video released on Sunday morning captures a Portillo’s chocolate cake being delivered to the pope in honor of his first birthday since becoming the leader of the Catholic Church.
It was delivered by the new U.S. ambassador to the Vatican. He said it was sent by Portillo’s.
Meanwhile, the village of Dolton hosted a birthday celebration for Pope Leo at his childhood home on 141st Street on Sunday.
The party, which kicked off at 10 a.m., included music and prayers from local clergy.
“Happy blessed birthday Pope Leo, and we’re just so honored to be able to celebrate your life today,” said village of Dolton Minister Deborah White.
Dolton neighbors and community leaders came together on the sunny Sunday morning to sing together and pray together.
“It’s a sense of pride because it was needed. For the community, it’s brought new light, new community awareness, new fellowship,” White said.
Those celebrating released white balloons as one in the pope’s honor. Special Pope Leo cookies were also on hand.
Dolton Village Trustee Tammy Brown says the pope’s home is bringing new light to Dolton.
“It’s remarkable. You can stop by any time, step out of your car, and see visitors from around the globe,” Brown remarked. “Look at our community now. The fact that the pope once called this place home has really united us.”
Homer Glen’s Bernice Szaflarski just got back from a trip to see the pope in Vatican City.
“Seeing the pope is always an amazing experience,” Szaflarski commented. “This isn’t our first time visiting. We’re just so proud that he’s the first American pope, and he seems incredibly affectionate. His smile is simply wonderful.”
Dolton Mayor Jason House says the village plans to celebrate the pope’s birthday every year, creating a special annual tradition for this community.
The celebration in Dolton came after family and friends of “Chicago’s pope” gathered in New Lenox to sing happy birthday to the pontiff on Friday.
The pope’s older brother, John Prevost, shared with ABC7 that his advice for the pope is to be cautious navigating stairs, considering his advancing age.
And on Saturday night, there was a big celebration at the Vatican on the eve of the pope’s birthday.
Renowned musicians, including Chicago’s own Jennifer Hudson, Andrea Bocelli, and Pharrell Williams, came together in a concert celebrating music and the bonds it creates among people.
There was also a spectacular drone show after the concert, lighting up the sky.
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