(Vatican Radio) On Saturday evening Pope Francis was scheduled to visit the papal
basilica of Saint Mary Major where he led the recitation of the Rosary. This evening’s
prayer at is in observance of May which is traditionally celebrated as the month of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. The visit was scheduled as part of the Year of Faith appointments
set by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. This will be Pope Francis’ second visit to the
basilica, the first being the day after his election to the papacy. The 4th
century Basilica of Saint Mary Major is one of the four Major Basilicas of Rome, and
the oldest church in the West to be dedicated to Mary the mother of God.