On May 8, 2025, the city of Pompei witnessed a remarkable confluence of faith and tradition as it celebrated the election of Robert Francis Prevost, who has taken the name Pope Leone XIV. This historic event coincided with the annual Supplication to the Madonna of Pompei, a significant religious ritual that draws thousands of devotees, marking a day filled with profound emotion and hope.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, officiated the Mass of Supplication at the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary. At 91 years old, Cardinal Re was unable to participate in the papal election held in the Sistine Chapel but expressed his heartfelt connection to the event. "I am here because I always need the Madonna of Pompei," he stated, urging the faithful to pray for the Virgin's intercession in electing a Pope who can address the needs of both the Church and the troubled world.
The Supplication, a prayer originally written by Bartolo Longo, the founder of the Pompei Sanctuary, has been a cherished tradition for many years. This year, it took on added significance as it coincided with the second day of the Conclave, the gathering of Cardinals tasked with electing the new Pope. Archbishop Tommaso Caputo welcomed Cardinal Re and expressed gratitude for his presence, highlighting the deep spiritual connection that the event fostered among the attendees.
As the faithful gathered in the square outside the sanctuary, many expressed their hopes for the new Pope to follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis. "He must think of the poor and be against war," said one woman, while a young girl remarked, "There won’t be another Pope like Francis, but I hope he follows his path." These sentiments echoed the general desire among the crowd for a leader who embodies compassion and social justice.
The bells of Pompei rang joyously throughout the day, celebrating not only the election of Pope Leone XIV but also the deep-rooted traditions of the city. The coincidence of the papal election and the Supplication was seen as a powerful sign of divine favor. Monsignor Caputo noted the emotional weight of this overlap, stating that it underscored the strong connection between the local faith community and the broader Church.
During his first public appearance from the loggia of blessings, Pope Leone XIV addressed the gathered crowd, referring to the Virgin Mary as "our mother" and expressing his commitment to being a shepherd for the faithful. His initial prayer focused on peace in the world, reflecting the urgent needs of a global community facing numerous conflicts.
Cardinal Re, in his address, invited all present to pray fervently for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the selection of the new Pope. He emphasized the importance of having a leader who can adapt to the rapid changes of modern society while remaining anchored in faith. The atmosphere during the Supplication was one of intense participation, as the prayers resonated with the hopes and fears of those in attendance.
This year’s Supplication to the Madonna of Pompei has been particularly poignant, intertwining with the election of a new Pope, which many see as a direct answer to the prayers of the faithful. The event has not only reinforced the spiritual identity of Pompei but also highlighted its role as a center of pilgrimage and devotion.
As the city of Pompei continues to celebrate this significant day, the local community remains committed to supporting Pope Leone XIV. The bells that rang out in celebration were not just a tribute to a new papacy but also a reaffirmation of the deep-seated faith that characterizes this vibrant community.
In the days to come, the connection between the people of Pompei and their new Pope will likely strengthen, as they share in the hopes for a Church that is responsive to the needs of its followers. The Supplication, steeped in tradition and communal prayer, has once again proven to be a vital expression of faith, uniting the local community in a shared mission of love and service.
Pompei, with its rich religious history, stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith. The election of Pope Leone XIV, coupled with the heartfelt prayers of the Supplication, marks a new chapter in the life of the Church, one that is filled with promise and potential for the future. As the city embraces this momentous occasion, the faithful look forward to a papacy that resonates with the spirit of compassion and commitment to the marginalized, much like that of Pope Francis.
This day, marked by celebration and reflection, will surely be remembered as a significant moment in the annals of the Catholic Church, reinforcing the idea that even in times of change, faith remains a guiding light for many.
