Pope calls for a “beautiful gesture” on this feast day

"Go to a Marian Shrine to venerate the Madonna," encourages Pope Francis on the feast of the Assumption.

Pope Francis suggested that the faithful celebrate the Feast of the Assumption with a simple act: going to visit our Mother.

I invite you to perform a beautiful gesture today: Go to a Marian Shrine to venerate the Madonna. Those who are in Rome could go to pray before the icon of the Salus Populi Romani, in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

Pope Francis is a big fan of stopping in to see Our Lady in a shrine or church. This devotional practice dates back centuries.

Read more:“With the Virgin, I’m safe”: Pope explains why he starts and ends trips with Mary

Read about the history and significance of pilgrimage here:

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