ROME – In a heartfelt inaugural outing, Pope Leo XIV made an unannounced visit to the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, a small town located about an hour outside of Rome, on May 10, 2025. This marked his first public appearance as the newly elected pope, having been appointed just two days earlier on May 8.
According to a statement from the Vatican, the visit took place shortly after 4 p.m., where the pope was greeted by a festive crowd of around 100 people who had gathered in the square in front of the shrine. Arriving in a black Volkswagen multivan, Leo XIV waved to the enthusiastic crowd, who shouted, “Viva il papa” (Long live the Pope).
The shrine, managed by the Augustinian order, houses an ancient image of the Virgin Mary, which is particularly cherished by the order and has historical significance dating back to Pope Leo XIII, who elevated it to the status of a minor basilica in 1903. The pope, a member of the Augustinian order himself, expressed his deep connection to this sacred site, stating, “I wanted so much to come here in these first days of the new ministry that the Church has given me, to carry forward this mission as the Successor of Peter.”
Upon entering the church, Pope Leo XIV greeted the members of the Augustinian community residing there. He paused for prayer at the main altar and in front of the revered icon of the Mother of Good Counsel. During this moment of reflection, he recited Pope John Paul II’s prayer to the Mother of Good Counsel, alongside those present, and led the congregation in the Hail Mary and the Salve Regina.
The pope’s visit to Genazzano was not just a symbolic gesture; it was a personal pilgrimage. He recalled a previous visit he made after being elected prior general of the Order of Saint Augustine, where he had committed to “offer his life to the Church.” This connection to the shrine and its significance in his spiritual journey was evident as he reiterated his trust in the Mother of Good Counsel, referring to her as a companion of “light and wisdom.” He emphasized the importance of Mary’s words to the servants at the Wedding at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you.”
After his public address, Pope Leo XIV engaged in a private meeting with members of the Augustinian community, further solidifying his bond with the order that has been present in Genazzano since 1200.
Following this significant visit, the pope made a stop at Santa Maria Maggiore, where he paid respects at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. Arriving in a dark sedan, Leo XIV laid a white flower on the tomb and knelt in prayer, reflecting on the legacy of the late pope, who had a special devotion to the basilica.
In a statement released by the Vatican, it was noted that Leo XIV wanted to pray for guidance in the early days of his papacy. He acknowledged the emotional weight of the visit, stating, “It is a great emotion to be here,” highlighting the significance of his pilgrimage to both the shrine and the basilica.
As he concluded his visit to the shrine, Pope Leo XIV shared his sentiments with the gathered faithful, expressing joy at being able to pray to the Mother of Good Counsel. He reminded the community of the great responsibility that comes with the presence of the Madonna, urging them to remain faithful as she is a mother who never abandons her children.
“You have a great gift, but it also means you have a great responsibility, like a mother with her children,” he said, encouraging the crowd to embrace the spirit of enthusiasm and devotion to Jesus, following the example of Mary.
Before departing, the pope blessed all those present in the square, leaving a lasting impression on the community of Genazzano. His surprise visit was not only a demonstration of his commitment to his new role but also a reaffirmation of his deep-rooted connection to the Augustinian order and the traditions of the Catholic faith.
Pope Leo XIV’s first public appearance as pope was a blend of personal devotion and communal celebration, reflecting his intention to lead with humility and faith as he embarks on his papacy. The visit to Genazzano set a tone for his ministry, emphasizing the importance of prayer, community, and the guidance of the Virgin Mary in the life of the Church.
