Pope Francis makes prayerful visit to Marian basilica before Holy Week

AC Wimmer By AC Wimmer for CNA

April 12, 2025 Catholic News Agency News Briefs 0 Print

 

Pope Francis kneels in prayer before the revered Marian icon “Salus Populi Romani” at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, April 12, 2025. / Holy See Press Office

CNA Newsroom, Apr 12, 2025 / 09:20 am (CNA).

Pope Francis made a prayerful pilgrimage to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on Saturday afternoon, continuing the pontiff’s gradual return to public appearances ahead of Holy Week celebrations.

The 88-year-old pope paused to pray before the venerated icon of the Virgin Mary known as “Salus Populi Romani” (Protectress of the Roman People), according to a Vatican statement released Saturday.

This visit marks another step in Francis’ cautious comeback to public life following his recent health challenges. The pope has been largely absent from public view since his release from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital approximately three weeks ago, where he was treated for a respiratory infection.

Saturday’s visit to the Marian basilica comes on the eve of Palm Sunday, which inaugurates Holy Week in the Catholic liturgical calendar. The Vatican has yet to confirm Francis’ participation in upcoming Easter celebrations, with officials indicating that decisions regarding his role in the Easter Triduum will be made “at the last minute.”

According to medical updates, the pontiff continues to receive respiratory therapy and motor physiotherapy, though his need for supplemental oxygen has decreased in frequency.

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, vice dean of the College of Cardinals, is scheduled to preside over Palm Sunday Mass as Pope Francis’ delegate.

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Be champions of virtue, Pope Francis tells Coppa Italia finalists

May 16, 2017 CNA Daily News 0

Vatican City, May 16, 2017 / 12:23 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Two opposing Italian football teams came together on Tuesday to meet in a private audience with Pope Francis, where he encouraged the Coppa Italia finalists to be upstanding role models of virtue, especially to the youth.

“I would like to reflect, briefly, on the importance of sport and consider the fascination it exerts and the impact of professional football on people, especially young people, towards whom you have a responsibility,” Pope Francis told the Italian football teams May 16. The staff, coaches, and players of both teams were present during the papal audience.

“Those who are considered ‘champions’ easily become role models. Therefore, every match is a test of balance, of self-mastery, of respect for the rules.”

“He, who through his behavior, puts all of this into practice, provides a good example for his followers, and this is what I wish for each of you: to be witnesses of loyalty, honesty, harmony and humanity,” the Holy Father continued.

The two Serie A teams, Juventus (from Turin) and Lazio (from Rome), are the finalists in the upcoming Coppa Italia tournament which will take place Wednesday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Juventus is the defending champion of the tournament, and has won the title 11 times, to Lazio’s six.

During their meeting, Pope Francis lamented the occasions of violence that sometimes occur during the football games, saying, “sadly, there are episodes of violence which affect the serenity of matches and the healthy enjoyment for the fans.”

However, the Holy Father encouraged the players to remain good sports and be “promoters of harmony,” even when tensions rise during the game.

The two teams presented Pope Francis with honorary football jerseys during their audience, along with a replica of the tournament’s trophy, the Coppa Italia. The Holy Father also wished both sides a good game.

“I thank you for your visit with all of my heart,” Pope Francis stated, “and I hope you play out a great match.”

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