Pope prays to Mary ahead of Apostolic Voyage to Strasbourg
(Vatican Radio) As has become customary, Pope Francis visited the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on the eve of his Apostolic Voyage to Strasbourg.
The Holy Father visited the Basilica around 17:30 Monday evening, where he paused in prayer before the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title “Salus Populi Romani.” A statement from the Holy See Press Office said Pope Francis spent approximately half an hour in prayer, asking for Mary’ intercession for the success of his visit to the European Parliament and the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. Following his prayer, the Holy Father offered a wreath with blue and yellow roses, the colours of Europe.