March 13, 2013, marked the beginning of Pope Francis’s papacy. From his first appearance, he demonstrated his intention to guide the Catholic Church with humility and closeness. His first full day as Supreme Pontiff was no exception, setting a clear tone for his papacy, grounded in simplicity and service.
Basilica of Saint Mary Major: Pope Francis’s First Day Destination
“Tomorrow I want to go pray to the Virgin, so she may watch over all of Rome,” Pope Francis declared to the world in his first appearance after being elected.
True to his word, at 8:05 a.m. on March 14, the Pope left the Vatican in a simple gendarmerie vehicle. His destination was the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of Rome’s most iconic churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Upon arrival, the Holy Father entered through one of the side doors, avoiding any ceremonial displays. Once inside, he approached the image of Our Lady “Salus Populi Romani” (Protectress of the Roman People). He was accompanied by Cardinal Santos Abril and Cardinal Vicar Agostino Vallini. This act carried profound meaning, reflecting his deep Marian devotion and his desire to begin his papacy under the Virgin’s protection.
A Moment of Personal Prayer
Standing before the main altar, Pope Francis placed a bouquet of flowers as an offering and prayed silently for approximately ten minutes.
This altar, which houses a crypt with a relic of the Bethlehem manger, is a sacred place for Catholic faithful. At that moment, therefore, the Pontiff demonstrated his commitment to spirituality and prayer—elements that would define his pastoral style.
In addition to visiting the Virgin’s image, the Pope also went to the Sistine Chapel within the Basilica. Notably, this special place contains the altar where Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, celebrated his first Mass in Rome during Christmas in 1538. This gesture highlighted his Jesuit roots and his connection to the Church’s spiritual heritage.
Meaningful Encounters
During his visit, Pope Francis greeted members of the Basilica’s Chapter, confessors, pastors, and the staff working there. Moreover, he interacted warmly with the faithful and journalists who encountered him along the way. His warmth and accessibility stood out in every interaction, reinforcing his image as an approachable and empathetic leader.
After concluding his visit, the Holy Father returned to the Vatican with the same small group that accompanied him. However, during the journey, he surprised everyone with an unexpected stop at the International Clergy House located on Via della Scrofa, near Piazza Navona. This place had been his residence before the Conclave that elevated him to the papacy.
There, he collected his personal belongings, requested the bill, and paid like any other guest. This seemingly simple act had a profound symbolic impact, reflecting his desire to act responsibly and avoid any undue privilege.
A Start That Made a Difference
Pope Francis’s first day as Supreme Pontiff was a clear indication of the type of leadership to come. His focus on prayer, humility, and direct contact with people laid the foundation for a papacy aiming to reform the Church from within, promoting values such as simplicity and inclusion.
In the words of Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi, “This day reflects the character of Pope Francis, a man who prioritizes spirituality and closeness to people.” This message resonated widely among the faithful, who saw in him a leader willing to break away from overly ceremonial traditions to focus on the essential.
An Example for the World
Since that first day, Pope Francis has continued to inspire millions with his pastoral approach and commitment to social causes. This humble and meaningful beginning not only solidified his image as a close spiritual leader but also set a precedent for the years to come.
To learn more about Pope Francis and his impact on the Catholic Church, you can visit Vatican News or read more about the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on the official Vatican page.
This first day remains etched in the memory of the faithful as a declaration of intent. In an increasingly complex world, Pope Francis demonstrated that humility and personal commitment can serve as a powerful example for all.
