Pope Francis Returns to Vatican – Stops at Roman Basilica to Pray

After a multi-day hospital stay, Pope Francis returned to the Vatican on Sunday afternoon (March 23, 2025). Just before reaching the Vatican, Pope Francis made a last-minute program change by stopping first at the Roman basilica “Santa Maria Maggiore,” where he prayed in front of the Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary with Jesus, known as “Salus Populi Romani.” The pontiff frequently visits this particular church, located near Rome’s central train station, to thank the Virgin for the success of his significant travels. Earlier that Sunday morning, he made his first public appearance after his health issue. He was treated for double pneumonia since February 14. A crowd of faithful greeted him below. “Thank you all. I see a lady with yellow flowers, bravo,” the pope said while addressing the cheering devotees. The Pontiff traveled in a wheelchair without an oxygen tank.