Pope Leo XIV Encourages Devotion to Mary During Visit to Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Vatican City, May 26, 2025 — Pope Leo XIV visited the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome on Sunday evening after celebrating Mass at the Basilica of St. John Lateran. During his visit, he led prayers before the revered icon of Salus Populi Romani, honoured his predecessor Pope Francis at his tomb, and called on the faithful to renew their devotion to the Virgin Mary.

The pope began his visit by entering the Pauline Chapel at the basilica and praying before the icon of Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the Roman People), a sacred image before which many Pontiffs, including Pope Francis, have entrusted the Church’s most important intentions. After offering flowers to the ancient Marian icon and chanting the Magnificat, the Pope then paused to pray at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who is buried in the same basilica.

Before returning to the Vatican, the Holy Father stepped out onto the Basilica’s loggia to greet the faithful gathered outside. He began by extending his peace to everyone before expressing his gratitude for their presence.

“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 continued by thanking “all those who serve in this Basilica, the two cardinals who are here with me today, and the many others who faithfully help us live our life of prayer and devotion.”

The Pope stressed the importance of having a relationship with the Mother of God. He said, “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.”

“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 continued.

Pope Leo then led the faithful in praying the Hail Mary before extending his Apostolic Blessing. Concluding, he wished everyone a good evening and once again thanked them “from the bottom of his heart—God bless you!”

By Wojciech Rogacin and Kielce Gussie

Courtesy: Vatican News