In a quiet yet powerful gesture of reverence, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday offered prayers at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and knelt before the sacred icon of the Virgin Mary known as Salus Populi Romani inside the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. The act, deeply symbolic and personal, marked one of his first spiritual outings since being elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church.
Earlier in the day, the newly elected pontiff had visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Genazzano, a location significant to his religious roots in the Augustinian order. There, he prayed for guidance as he begins his papacy, interacted with worshippers, and offered his first public blessings since assuming office.
Upon returning to Rome, Pope Leo made his way to the tomb of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at the age of 88. In a moment of solemnity, he stood silently at the grave before kneeling and laying a single white flower on the tombstone. The marble slab, modest and inscribed simply with the name “Franciscus,” reflected the humility that had defined Pope Francis’ life and ministry. Pope Leo’s tribute signaled not just respect, but continuity—an acknowledgement of the legacy that preceded him.
Following his prayers at the tomb, the Holy Father made his way to the Borghese Chapel within the same basilica, where he paused before the icon of Salus Populi Romani—Latin for “Protectress of the Roman People.” This ancient image of the Virgin Mary has long been revered by popes and faithful alike, especially during times of distress. Pope Francis himself had a deep devotion to the icon, visiting it before and after his international missions and often entrusting his journeys to the protection of the Blessed Mother.
Pope Leo XIV, elected just days ago following a swift conclave, has so far maintained a low public profile, focusing on prayer and discernment as he begins what many hope will be a spiritually revitalizing era for the Church. His visit to St. Mary Major — and specifically to the resting place of his predecessor and the icon of the Virgin Mary — sends a clear message that his pontificate will be steeped in tradition, reverence, and pastoral care.
