Welcome to Pope Leo XIV’s Visit to the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel
Recently, Pope Leo XIV embarked on his first official trip outside the Vatican to visit the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, just outside Rome. The Pope expressed his deep desire to visit the shrine in the early days of his new ministry, stating that he felt compelled to fulfill the Church’s entrusted mission to him.
The Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel has a rich history dating back to 1200 and is managed by the Augustinians. It is home to an ancient image of the Virgin Mary, originating from Shkodër (Albania), which was greatly cherished by Pope Leo XIII. Although Pope Leo XIII never had the opportunity to visit the shrine, he elevated it to the status of a minor basilica in 1903.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit follows in the footsteps of his predecessors, with John XXIII and John Paul II also having made visits to the shrine in the past. As Cardinal Prevost, Pope Leo XIV had celebrated Mass at the shrine on April 25, 2024, expressing his devotion to the Virgin Mary and urging the faithful to emulate her example by promoting peace and reconciliation in the world.
Upon his arrival at the shrine, Pope Leo XIV was greeted by a jubilant crowd and received a warm welcome from the Augustinian religious. He took a moment to pray before the altar and the image of the Virgin Mary, leading those present in reciting John Paul II’s prayer to the Mother of Good Counsel.
A Message of Trust and Obedience
In his address to the attendees, Pope Leo XIV expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit the shrine at the beginning of his new ministry. He shared his previous visit to the shrine after being elected as Prior General of the Order of St. Augustine, emphasizing his commitment to serving the Church. Quoting Mary’s words at the Wedding at Cana, “Whatever she tells you, do it,” Pope Leo XIV reiterated his trust in the guidance of the Mother of Good Counsel.
Following his public address, Pope Leo XIV held a private meeting with the Augustinian community, further strengthening his bond with the religious order.
We look forward to witnessing the impact of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel and the continued influence of the Virgin Mary’s guidance on his papacy.
