Pope Leo Prays at Tomb of Francis Ahead of First Sunday Address

In a deeply symbolic act of humility and spiritual continuity, Pope Leo visited the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, at St. Peter’s Basilica late Saturday evening. The solemn prayer marked a poignant moment ahead of Pope Leo’s first Sunday Angelus address since assuming the papacy.

The Vatican confirmed that the private visit occurred shortly after sunset, with Pope Leo spending several minutes in silent prayer at the simple white marble tomb inscribed with “Franciscus PP.” The gesture, witnessed only by close aides and Vatican security, is being hailed by Church observers as a moving tribute to the late pontiff’s legacy.

"Pope Leo’s prayer at the tomb of Francis is a powerful message of unity and gratitude," said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni. "It underscores his deep respect for the path laid by his predecessor and his desire to walk in continuity with the Church’s mission of mercy and inclusion."

The visit comes just hours before Pope Leo is set to deliver his first Angelus address from the window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square — a tradition that offers the Pope a weekly opportunity to reflect on scripture, current events, and global concerns.

Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this year after more than a decade of service marked by social justice advocacy and institutional reform, was buried in the Vatican grottoes beneath the basilica, near the tombs of other modern Popes including John Paul II and Benedict XVI.

Church leaders and pilgrims from around the world are expected to gather in large numbers for Sunday’s address, eager to hear Pope Leo’s first words to the faithful in his new role as shepherd of the global Catholic Church.

Analysts say the quiet visit to the tomb was not only an act of prayer, but also a strategic pastoral signal.

“It was a gesture of humility, but also one of continuity,” said Father Antonio Ricci, a professor of ecclesiology in Rome. “Pope Leo is showing that while the face of the papacy may change, its heart remains rooted in service, faith, and memory.”

As anticipation builds for the new Pope’s vision and leadership style, today’s act of reverence serves as a powerful reminder that every new chapter in the Church begins by honoring the pages that came before.