Pope celebrates 77th birthday with homeless

VATICAN CITY (AP):

Four homeless people have helped Pope Francis celebrate his 77th birthday at the Vatican.

They live nearby and were invited to attend the morning Mass which Pope Francis celebrates daily at the Vatican hotel where he lives. One of the men held his dog as he was presented to Pope Francis after Mass. The Vatican said Pope Francis invited his household help to join him in a "family-like" atmosphere, and he spoke of them one by one during his homily.

After Mass, all ate breakfast with Pope Francis at the hotel.

Pope Francis already blew out the candles on his birthday cake, presented to him on Saturday by children at the Vatican.

Another present awaits him. His favourite Argentine soccer team, San Lorenzo, will give him a replica of their championship trophy.