Pope Leo XIV returned to the Sanctuary of Our Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, revealing a new fresco showing him in prayer. This visit, on September 7, 2026, highlights his deep connection to the site, visited shortly after his election as pope.
The fresco now graces an upper cornice of the basilica where Leo celebrated Mass with Augustinian brothers. This tradition, commemorating popes with portraits, dates back to Pope Urban VIII in 1630. Leo’s May 2025 visit to the sanctuary marked his first as pope and reinforced the site’s significance to his Augustinian order.
Managed by Augustinian friars, the sanctuary has attracted pilgrims since the 15th century. Pope Leo XIII, after whom Leo XIV is named, raised its status to a minor basilica in the early 1900s while expanding its convent.
During Monday’s Mass, coinciding with Mary’s birth celebration, Leo recalled his previous reflections in the sanctuary’s guest book. He emphasized the Madonna of Good Counsel’s lifelong influence over his faith and devotion.
As summer concludes, the Vatican is preparing for a busy autumn. Pope Leo is planning visits to France and later to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru.
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