Pope to pray Vespers at Saint Mary Major on feast of Our Lady of the Snows

Pope Francis, who holds the Marian Basilica of Saint Mary Major close to his heart, will take part in the Vespers for the Solemnity of Our Lady of the Snows and the Anniversary of the Dedication of the Basilica on 5 August.

Each 5 August, the faithful of Rome and pilgrims commemorate the Solemnity of Our Lady of the Snows at the Marian Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

According to the Holy See Press Office, the Pope will be attending the Vespers of the Day’s events at 5:30 p.m., which will be presided by Archbishop Rolandas Makrickas, Coadjutor Archpriest of the Basilica. The Holy Father has had a special affection for the Marian Basilica throughout his Pontificate, evidenced by his numerous visits, especially before and after his Apostolic Journeys, when he prays before the icon of Maria Salus Populi Romani.

Tradition holds that the Blessed Virgin Mary made snow fall on the Esquiline Hill in the midst of the sweltering August heat of 352.

Later that week, on 7 August, the Holy Father will resume his weekly Wednesday General Audiences in the Vatican.