The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major commemorated yesterday the first anniversary of Pope Francis's birth into Heaven, with a moment of prayer and recollection.
The Holy Rosary and the Eucharistic Celebration gathered the faithful in grateful remembrance of his pontificate, entrusting him to the Lord's mercy. In the heart of the Basilica that guards his rest, prayer became living memory, in the light of faith and Easter hope.
On this occasion, a commemorative plaque was unveiled bearing the inscription “Franciscvs Pont Max qui centies vicies sexies pie ad pedes Matris Salvtis Popvli Romani adstitit sua sponte hac in Basilica Papali quiescit – D XXI M Aprilis A MMXXVI – Primo obitus anniversario”. The reference to the number 126 recalls Pope Francis's visits to the icon of the Salus Populi Romani, before which he stood and prayed 126 times during his pontificate.
© Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
