Pope entrusts 45th apostolic journey to Mary, Salus Populi Romani

Pope Francis prays before the icon of Mary, "Salus Populi Romani," in the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Photo: CNS photo/Holy See Press Office

HONG KONG (SE): On Sunday, September 1, the eve of his 45th apostolic journey abroad, Pope Francis visited the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome to pray before the icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani. He entrusted his upcoming apostolic journey to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore to her, Vatican News reported.

After praying he went back to the Vatican. According to the Holy See Press Office, this will be the longest journey of his pontificate, lasting from September 2-13.