Pope Francis Marks 87th Birthday With Vatican Graft Trial Results

Pope Francis on Dec. 17.

Photographer: Vatican Media/Getty Images

Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

ROME (AP) — Pope Francis turned 87 on Sunday, closing out a year that saw big milestones in his efforts to reform the Catholic Church as well as health scares that raise questions about his future as pope.

Francis celebrated his birthday with cake during a festive audience with children Sunday morning, and there were “Happy Birthday” banners in St. Peter's Square during his weekly noon blessing.