Pope prays before image of Mary, Salus Populi Romani
(Vatican Radio) As has become customary, Pope Francis on Thursday paid a private visit to the Basilica of St Mary Major on the eve of his Apostolic Voyage to Armenia.
The Holy Father prayed before the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as “Salus Populi Romani,” (Protectress of the Roman People), asking the Blessed Virgin Mary to bless his journey, according to a press release from Father Federico Lombardi, S.J., the Director of the Holy See Press Office. Pope Francis left a bouquet of flowers, in the colours of the Armenian flag, at the altar after his prayer.
Pope Francis departs Rome for Armenia on Friday for a three day visit.