At the Basilica of Saint Mary Major

After the Eucharistic Celebration the Holy Father went to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major for the Veneration of the Icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary ‘Salus Populi Romani’. Brothers and sisters, peace be with you! Good evening to you all. Thank you for being here! Thank you for being here in front of this Basilica this afternoon, this evening, as we celebrate together, as members of the Diocese of Rome, the presence of its new Bishop. I am very happy to see you all here, and I thank you from my heart. I thank all of those who work in this Basilica, the two Cardinals who are accompanying me this evening, and the many people who are dedicated to helping us live our life of prayer, of devotion, and who above all, help us draw closer to the Mother of Jesus, to the Mother of God, Mary Most Holy. It is a beautiful opportunity to renew this ...