St Mary Major, around 2.5 miles from the Vatican, was dear to Francis because of his devotion to Mary, Mother of God. He prayed there before setting off on and returning from each overseas trip.

First, and foremost, I am actually not an awful person – I am exactly how God made me, “we love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19. God designed me this way – to love to be loved!

God does C.P.R. and brings humanity, dead in sin, back to life! The Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us once again as in a temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).

Votive candles and flowers are seen at the base of a statue of St. John Paul II outside Rome's Gemelli hospital Feb. 19, 2025, where Pope Francis is being treated for double pneumonia. (CNS photo ...