By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 8, 2024 / 15:33 pm
Pope Francis embarked on a spiritual journey across Rome on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, starting at the Basilica of St. Mary Major and moving on to the Spanish Steps. He emphasized to the faithful that the true Jubilee is within them before unexpectedly visiting a painting that holds a special place in his heart.
The pope initiated his Marian devotions at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he prayed before the ancient icon “Salus Populi Romani” (Protectress of the Roman People), a tradition he upholds before and after his international travels.
Despite the cold and rainy weather, a large crowd gathered in Rome’s historic center as the pope continued the tradition of honoring the Immaculate Conception near the Marian column by the Spanish Steps.
The statue of the Immaculate Conception, perched atop a 12-meter column, was unveiled on Dec. 8, 1857, shortly after the Church affirmed the doctrine of Mary’s Immaculate Conception. Since the 1950s, starting with Pope Pius XII in 1953, it has been customary for popes to honor the statue on this feast day.
As the sun rose over Rome, the city’s firefighters continued their long-standing tradition by placing a wreath of flowers on the arm of the statue of the Virgin Mary. This touching gesture pays tribute to the 220 firefighters who took part in the statue’s inauguration over 166 years ago.
During his prayer at the Spanish Steps, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of Rome’s preparations for the upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year. He will kick off the Jubilee Year by opening the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve.
“Rome is alive, renewing itself”
Pope Francis acknowledged the inconveniences caused by Rome’s various construction projects in preparation for the Jubilee Year. However, he also highlighted that these projects are a sign of a city that is alive, evolving, and striving to be more welcoming and functional.
“But your maternal gaze sees beyond,” the pope prayed before the statue. “And I seem to hear your voice that with wisdom tells us: ‘My children, these works are good, but be attentive: do not forget the construction sites of the soul! The true Jubilee is not outside, it is inside: inside of you, inside hearts, inside family and social relationships.’”
The 2025 Jubilee Year, with a theme of hope, will commence on Dec. 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.
