Valentina di Giorgio
(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 12.08.2023).- On the occasion of the Marian solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis visited the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for the 115th time. On this occasion, on the evening of Friday, December 8, he presented the Marian devotion venerated in that basilica – the Salus Populi Romani – with a golden rose.
The Pope arrived in his wheelchair, carrying a bouquet of natural flowers, and was placed in front of the disassembled Marian icon from the altar so that the Pope could be closer. The Pope prayed in contemplation – the golden roses were already before the Marian image – and afterward, the prayer of the «Salve Regina» was sung. Before heading to the Spanish Steps for the tribute to the Immaculate Conception, the Pope greeted some of those present, especially the sick.
