Pope Leo XIV made a significant visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major following the celebration of Mass at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, marking a deeply spiritual moment for the Diocese of Rome.
At the basilica, the Holy Father prayed in the Pauline Chapel before the revered icon of "Maria Salus Populi Romani"—Salvation of the Roman People—a sacred image that has been venerated by many Popes, including Pope Francis. He offered flowers to the ancient Marian icon, chanted the "Magnificat", and then spent time in silent prayer at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who is buried in the same basilica.
Before returning to the Vatican, Pope Leo stepped out onto the loggia of the basilica to greet the faithful gathered outside. Smiling and waving, he extended his heartfelt thanks. “Thank you for being here! Thank you for coming to this Basilica this afternoon, this evening, as we, members of the Diocese of Rome, celebrate the presence of its new Bishop. I’m truly happy to see you all here and I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he said.
Pope also expressed gratitude to the clergy and staff of the basilica, including the two cardinals who accompanied him and the many people who contribute to its spiritual life.
Pope Leo took the opportunity to highlight the importance of Marian devotion. “This is a wonderful moment to renew our devotion to Mary, in the image of Salus Populi Romani, who has accompanied the people of Rome through so many of their trials,” he said.
Calling on the faithful to deepen their relationship with the Mother of God, the Pope prayed for God’s blessings through Mary’s intercession for all families and communities. “Let us ask God, through the intercession of His Mother, to bless you all—your families, your loved ones—and to help us journey together in the Church, united as one family of God.”
He then led the crowd in praying the Hail Mary before imparting his Apostolic Blessing. Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV wished everyone a peaceful evening and once again offered his heartfelt thanks.