There are few documented images of papal birthdays, but some, like this one, are unforgettable.
Few would have imagined Pope Benedict XVI like this, but that's what comes with being German. It was 2017, and the then Pope Emeritus was celebrating his 90th birthday. By his side was his brother Georg.
Although papal birthdays are usually quite low-key, without any large events, Pope Francis was known for celebrating his with the little ones.
And let’s not forget the faithful, who brought him cakes.
Or even organize tangos in his honor, as is what happened in 2014.
What is clear is that even if popes celebrate their birthdays discreetly, if there's a public event around the date, the faithful will always show up to express their affection.
JRB
Trans. CRT
