Pope Leo XIV’s first trip outside Vatican
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV made his first journey beyond the Vatican walls on Saturday, traveling about an hour east of Rome. His visit took him to a Catholic shrine, marking an important early moment in his papacy. On his way back, he stopped at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, to pay his respects.
Traveling in a Volkswagen, Leo waved warmly from the passenger seat as he arrived at Rome’s St. Mary Major Basilica. The crowd greeted him with shouts of “Viva il papa” (Long live the pope). Inside the basilica, Leo walked slowly to Francis’ tomb and laid a white flower there. Then, he knelt in prayer for several moments, reflecting quietly.
Visiting the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel
Before coming to St. Mary Major, Pope Leo XIV traveled to the small town of Genazzano. There, he visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel, a Marian shrine run by the Augustinian order to which he belongs. He greeted the faithful, shook hands, and gave blessings to those gathered at the shrine.
According to a Vatican statement, Leo said he came to pray for guidance during the early days of his papacy. This visit demonstrated his deep connection to the religious order and his commitment to seek spiritual direction.
Honoring Pope Francis at St. Mary Major
Leo’s visit to St. Mary Major was also meaningful because it houses the tomb of the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. The previous pope had a special devotion to this Marian basilica and had requested a simple tomb there, marked only with the Latin inscription “Franciscus.”
Since Francis’ burial, thousands have visited the basilica to pay homage at his final resting place, highlighting the deep affection and respect many hold for him.
Pope Leo XIV’s early actions show a balance of honoring tradition while seeking new spiritual paths. His first trip outside the Vatican and his prayer at the shrine and tomb reflect his thoughtful approach to his role as the new leader of the Catholic Church.