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

They were invited to attend the morning Mass which Francis celebrates daily at the Vatican hotel where he lives.

One of the men held his dog as he was presented to Francis after Mass. The Vatican said 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 Francis at the hotel.

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

Another present awaits him when his favourite Argentine football team, San Lorenzo, will give him a replica of their championship trophy.

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