We could not bring you a cake, dear Holy Father, but we have the candles from the Koln Cathedral and a traditional birthday song!
Hoch soll er leben!*
Hoch soll er leben!
Dreimal hoch!**
* "Long may he live"
** "Three cheers!"
Today as you celebrate your birthday in America, may you feel the warm welcome of those of us who have never met you, but love you still.
Mother Mary, watch over this your beloved son, Pope Benedict XVI, and grant him the intention closest to his heart on this his 81st birthday.