Pope Francis entrusted his journey to Iraq to Our Lady

On the eve of his departure for a three-day trip to Iraq, Pope Francis visited a Rome basilica to ask for the Virgin Mary’s intercession and protection on his journey.

According to the Holy See press office, Pope Francis went to the Basilica of St Mary Major on March 4th “for a moment of prayer” before the Byzantine icon of Salus Populi Romani, (Mary, Protection of the Romans). It has been Pope Francis’ custom to visit the icon before his international trips to ask for the Virgin Mary’s protection. He also typically visits the icon upon returning to Rome and before re-entering the Vatican.

Pope Francis was in Iraq from March 5th-8th on a visit intended to strengthen the hope of the country’s persecuted Christian minority and to foster fraternity and inter-religious dialogue.

Adapted from CNA for A Moment with Mary