The pope will pay tribute to the image of the Immaculate Conception in Piazza di Spagna. It is one of the most popular Roman traditions.
It is one of the few occasions throughout the year in which the pope and the people of Rome meet face to face. The pope prays for the needs of the Eternal City.
POPE FRANCIS
Dec. 8, 2018
“I ask you to be close to the families so that they are not left to their own devices.”
Pope Francis is expected to arrive at 4 p.m. After praying before the statue of Mary, he will stop to greet some of the sick.
This tradition was started by Pius XII in 1953 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. Since then every pope has prayed in the same place.
Javier Romero
Translation: Claudia Torres
