Wednesday, April 16, 2008, is not only the first full day of Pope Benedict XVI's first apostolic journey to the United States; it's also his 81st birthday. (When John Paul II made his first visit to the United States in October 1979, he was a mere 59 years old.) Pope Benedict began his birthday by celebrating a private Mass in the chapel at the apostolic nunciature, the home of the papal nuncio (the Pope's representative to the United States), in Washington, D.C. The Holy Father is staying at the nunciature during the Washington portion of his visit.

Pope Benedict's schedule today includes an official welcoming ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, as well as a celebration of vespers (evening prayer) and a meeting with the bishops of the United States at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, on the campus of The Catholic University of America in Northeast Washington, D.C. Check back throughout the day, and all this week, for in-depth coverage of these and other events.

On this, the Holy Father's 81st birthday, may God grant his servant, Pope Benedict XVI, peace, health, and happiness for many years, as he faithfully preaches the Word of His truth!

Resources for Pope Benedict's April 2008 Visit to the United States:

• Biography of Pope Benedict XVI
• Schedule of Pope Benedict's 2008 Visit to the United States
• White House Welcoming Ceremony for Pope Benedict
• Celebration of Vespers and Meeting With U.S. Bishops