Pope Francis’s Deep Devotion to St. Mary Major Basilica
Rome — may 17, 2024 — Pope Francis’s profound spiritual connection to the Basilica of St. Mary Major has been a constant throughout his papacy. This basilica, located in Rome, served as a place of refuge, prayer, and reflection for the pontiff. His devotion to St.Mary Major is a central theme, informing his actions and decisions, and will be part of his legacy.
Pope Francis’s Deep Devotion too St. Mary Major Basilica
Pope Francis’s profound connection to the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, approximately 2.5 miles from the Vatican, is rooted in his deep marian devotion. This basilica served as a spiritual touchstone throughout his papacy, a place of prayer before embarking on and upon returning from his numerous international journeys.
A Lifelong Devotion
The basilica held a special place in Francis’s heart long before he ascended to the papacy.As he revealed in his 2024 book,El sucesor (The Successor),a lengthy interview with journalist Javier Martinez-Brocal,I’ve always had a great devotion to St Mary Major,even before I became pope.
This statement underscores the enduring meaning of the basilica in his spiritual life.
Early Papal Pilgrimage
The day after his election as the first Latin American pope on March 13, 2013, Francis made an early morning visit to St. Mary Major on March 14. This act symbolized the continuity of his personal faith with his new role as the leader of the Catholic Church.
Moments of Crisis and Consolation
Throughout his papacy,Francis returned to St. Mary Major during pivotal moments, seeking solace and divine intervention. In 2020, amidst the global coronavirus pandemic and a locked-down Rome, he prayed for an end to the crisis.He also visited the basilica after undergoing abdominal surgeries in 2021 and 2023, demonstrating the basilica’s role as a place of healing and recovery.
The pauline Chapel and marian Art
The Pauline Chapel, located in the left nave of the basilica, houses a revered Byzantine icon of Mary. A vase of golden roses, a gift from Francis in 2023, is displayed among candlesticks beneath the icon, a testament to his ongoing devotion. Before reaching the chapel, visitors encounter a statue of Mary, Queen of Peace, commissioned by pope Benedict XV in 1918 to implore God to end World War I.
Prayers for Peace
In May 2022, Francis led an international prayer service at the basilica, focusing on peace in Ukraine and other regions afflicted by war. This event highlighted the basilica’s role as a center for global peace initiatives.
A final Resting Place
Pope Francis has chosen St.Mary Major as his burial site. He revealed his decision in El Sucesor, stating, Just beyond the sculpture of the Queen of Peace there’s a small recess, a door that leads to a room were candelabras were stored. I saw it and thoght: ‘This is the place’.
This choice underscores the profound personal significance of the basilica in his life and legacy.
