For the 51st time, Pope Francis on the evening of September 5, 2017 visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major to ask the Mother of God for a successful journey – or to thank her for one just ended.
The Holy Father will travel to Colombia from September 6-11, 2017, visiting four cities and giving 12 addresses.
In his video to the Colombia people in advance of his trip, he evoked Mary as well: “May our Mother, the Holy Virgin take care of you. And please don’t forget to pray for me. Thank you and see you soon.”
Pope at St. Mary Major © L'Osservatore Romano
Colombia: First Stop, Basilica of St. Mary Major
Papal Pilgrimage Entrusted to Mother of God