On May 8, 2025, a significant religious event unfolded in Pompei, Italy, where Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the Supplica alla Madonna del Santo Rosario. This annual devotion, held twice a year, drew hundreds of faithful and dignitaries to the piazza outside the sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, coinciding with the ongoing Conclave in Rome to elect a new Pope.
The Supplica, a heartfelt prayer composed in 1883 by Blessed Bartolo Longo, is recited solemnly on May 8 and the first Sunday of October, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across Italy and beyond. It serves as a spiritual response to societal ills, echoing the call made by Pope Leo XIII in his first encyclical on the Rosary, urging Catholics to engage in spiritual commitments to confront the challenges of their time.
During the celebration, Cardinal Re emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, "Today, we pray for the Pope that the Holy Spirit will provide to the Church. A Pope who strengthens faith in God in a world that tends to forget Him." His remarks resonate deeply as attendees expressed their hopes for the new Pope to embody the values and vision of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this year.
Attendees at the Supplica voiced a collective desire for the new Papal leader to follow in Francis's footsteps. A woman in the crowd articulated, "He must think of the least, the poorest, and above all be against war," reflecting a widespread sentiment among the faithful. Another young girl added, "There will not be another Pope like Francis, but we hope he follows his path." These expressions highlight the enduring impact of Pope Francis's leadership and the desire for continuity in his mission.
Cardinal Re, who is 91 years old, presided over the Eucharistic celebration in Pompei, having recently officiated the Messa Pro eligendo Romano Pontifice at St. Peter's Basilica. His presence in Pompei during the Conclave is seen as a profound gesture of love for the Church. Mons. Tommaso Caputo, the Archbishop of Pompei, addressed Cardinal Re, stating, "Your presence here today is an ineffable sign of love for the Church and devotion to the Madonna of the Rosary, to whom we entrust our prayers."
In his homily, Cardinal Re reflected on the historical significance of Pompei, noting, "The history—both civil and ecclesiastical—does not stop. Pompei represents a strong emblem, where its bell tower, soon to celebrate its centennial, rises above a densely populated urban fabric." He urged the faithful to pray for a Pope who can reinforce the faith in God amid a world marked by technological advancements yet increasingly forgetful of the divine.
As the celebration progressed, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of hope and expectation. The supplication was not merely a ritual but a heartfelt plea for guidance and strength for the future of the Church. Cardinal Re highlighted the importance of the Virgin Mary's spiritual motherhood, which he stated was born at the foot of the Cross of Jesus, emphasizing her role in interceding for humanity's needs.
Reflecting on the life of Blessed Bartolo Longo, who founded the sanctuary, Cardinal Re described him as a passionate advocate for both faith and social justice. Longo believed that building a temple for prayer should be accompanied by a commitment to serve the poor and marginalized. Cardinal Re noted, "Longo's example calls us to a serious commitment to a more just, humane, and fraternal society, supporting one another as children of God and members of the same human family."
The Supplica is a prominent event that sees thousands gather to recite the prayer together, creating a powerful communal experience. The prayer's full text, rich with supplication for mercy and guidance, resonates with the faithful, calling for divine intervention in their lives and in the world.
As the faithful gathered in Pompei, their prayers were not just for the election of a new Pope but for a leader who would embody compassion, peace, and a commitment to the marginalized. The event served as a reminder of the Church's enduring mission to address the needs of the poor and to promote peace amid global turmoil.
In the days ahead, as the Conclave continues, the prayers offered in Pompei will echo in the hearts of many, signifying a collective yearning for a Pope who can guide the Church through its challenges and uphold the values that Pope Francis championed. The celebration in Pompei, therefore, stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the unwavering faith of the Catholic community.
As the bell tower of Pompei prepares to mark its centennial, the significance of this moment in history is palpable. The faithful's devotion, coupled with their hopes for a new Pope, encapsulates a pivotal time for the Church, one that calls for reflection, prayer, and a renewed commitment to the teachings of Christ.
