Pope’s 87th birthday closes year of efforts to reform Church and cement legacy

Pope Francis celebrated his 87th birthday on Sunday (Alessandra Tarantino/AP)

Pope Francis turned 87 on Sunday, ending a year that saw big milestones in his efforts to reform the Catholic Church as well as health scares that have raised questions about his future.

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