Pope prays at the Mother of Good Counsel shrine in Genazzano

Vatican, 11 May, 2025: For his first journey beyond the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV chose to visit the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, located outside Rome. The shrine has been under the care of the Augustinians since the year 1200.

The shrine houses an ancient image of the Virgin Mary, originally from Shkodër (Albania), which held special significance for Pope Leo XIII. Although he never visited the site himself, he elevated it to the rank of minor basilica in 1903.

Several Popes have made pilgrimages to the shrine in the past, including John XXIII in 1959 and John Paul II in 1993.

Today’s visit came from Pope Leo XIV, who had previously celebrated Mass at the shrine as a cardinal on 25 April 2024.

During that liturgy, Cardinal Prevost shared his deep devotion to Our Lady and encouraged the faithful to be inspired by Mary’s example in promoting peace and reconciliation.

A warm welcome and a moment of prayer

Travelling in a Volkswagen multivan and seated in the front, Pope Leo was welcomed by a jubilant crowd of hundreds, who gathered in the square and leaned from balconies to catch a glimpse of him. Cheers of “Leo, Leo” rang through the streets.

Inside the church, the Pope greeted the Augustinian friars before pausing in silent prayer first at the altar and then before the image of the Virgin Mary. Joined by those present, he recited Saint John Paul II’s prayer to the Mother of Good Counsel.

‘Whatever she tells you, do it’

After praying the Hail Mary and singing the Salve Regina, the Pope addressed those gathered inside the church as well as the citizens of Genazzano outside.

“I so deeply wished to come here in these early days of the new ministry entrusted to me by the Church as the Successor of Peter,” he shared.

Reflecting on his earlier visit following his election as Prior General of the Augustinian Order and his personal commitment to dedicate his life to the Church, Pope Leo reaffirmed his trust in the Mother of Good Counsel. He recalled Mary’s words to the servants at the Wedding at Cana: “Whatever she tells you, do it.”

The Pope concluded his visit with a private meeting with the Augustinian community.

Courtesy: Vatican News