Douglas Milton Logu Soosaithasan

After Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, his strong devotion to the Virgin Mary, especially to the famous icon of Salus Populi Romani, remained an important part of his legacy. His deep faith in Mary influenced his time as pope and shaped his vision for the Church, highlighting humility, service, and strong belief.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis maintained a steadfast tradition of visiting the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, home to the venerated icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani. From the moment of his election in 2013 until his final visit days before his death, the pontiff made over 125 visits to the basilica, praying before the sacred icon for guidance and protection. 

His devotion was not mere personal piety. It was a reflection of his belief in St. Mary as a beacon of faith and evangelization. “Mary is not only the mother of Jesus but also the Church’s star of the new evangelization,” he once remarked, urging clergy and faithful alike to emulate her humility and faith. 

Honouring Marian Shrines Around the World

Pope Francis’ reverence for Marian devotion extended far beyond Rome. He visited numerous Marian shrines worldwide, including Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal, Our Lady of Knock in Ireland, Our Lady of Madhu in Sri Lanka and Our Lady of Arabia in Bahrain, reinforcing his message of peace and unity through Mary’s example.

On December 8, 2023, in a historic gesture of homage, Pope Francis offered the Golden Rose to the icon of Salus Populi Romani, a centuries old papal tradition symbolizing deep spiritual reverence. Archbishop Rolandas Makrickas, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Basilica, welcomed the gesture, calling it “a visible expression of the Pope’s profound bond with the Mother of God.” 

A Legacy Rooted in Humility and Service

His unwavering commitment to Marian devotion was intertwined with his broader vision for the Church. Pope Francis consistently emphasized the need for humility and compassionate service, frequently drawing inspiration from St. Mary’s example. He described her as “the mother of humility” and “the power of silence,” underscoring the importance of quiet reflection and selfless service. 

Beyond his personal prayers, Pope Francis integrated Marian devotion into the Church’s broader mission. He encouraged clergy and laity alike to embrace St. Mary’s virtues, seeing her as a guiding figure in spiritual formation and pastoral care. His homilies often highlighted her unwavering faith, particularly her “yes” to God’s calling, which he presented as a model of obedience and trust. 

Throughout his pontificate, he maintained a tradition of entrusting major Church initiatives to Mary, invoking her intercession for peace, justice, and mercy.

His Final Resting Place, A Testament to His Devotion

His burial at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, rather than St. Peter’s Basilica, underscores his lifelong commitment to simplicity and Marian devotion. His final resting place near the revered icon of Salus Populi Romani serves as a lasting testament to his faith. 

As the Church now looks to the future under Pope Leo XIV, Pope Francis’ legacy endures, his profound devotion to the Virgin Mary continuing to inspire millions. His teachings on humility, service, and unwavering faith will remain at the heart of Catholic thought for generations to come.