Amid a global landscape marred by conflict, Italian civil and religious institutions extended warm birthday wishes to Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of his 71st birthday on September 14. The Italian Bishops' Conference (CEI) thanked the Pontiff for keeping the Gospel at the heart of the Church, echoing his recent Angelus message on the indispensable role of forgiveness in building peace. The Diocese of Rome joined in the tributes, invoking wisdom and strength for the Pope's ministry, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni drew inspiration from his recent remarks to urge citizens not to succumb to resignation, but instead to champion active, hope-driven action in challenging times.