Quick Bytes
- Pope Francis focuses on spiritual care in St. Mary Major Basilica reforms.
- Archbishop Makrickas appointed as coadjutor archpriest, may succeed Cardinal Rylko.
- New roles created for pastoral care and administration to improve efficiency.
- Pope expresses personal connection, wishes to be buried at the basilica.
Summary of Pope Francis’ Reforms at St. Mary Major Basilica
Pope Francis has introduced transformative changes to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, one of the most venerable Marian shrines in the West. A recent chirograph from the Holy Father highlights a shift in focus towards enhancing spiritual and pastoral care for pilgrims, relieving the clergy of their economic and administrative burdens.
The reform initiative began in December 2021 with the appointment of Archbishop Rolandas Makrickas as the extraordinary commissioner. His role was to reorganize the basilica’s operations for the faithful’s benefit. The basilica itself is home to precious religious relics and is a site of personal importance to Pope Francis, who has expressed a wish to be interred there.
Archbishop Makrickas has now been named the coadjutor archpriest, positioning him to potentially succeed the current archpriest, Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko. The restructuring also introduces new positions, including delegates for pastoral care and administration, to streamline the basilica’s functions. An administrative council has been formed to oversee financial transparency and accountability.
This overhaul reflects Pope Francis’ dedication to fostering a deeper spiritual connection and providing solace to visitors of this historic sanctuary, reinforcing its role as a pillar of faith for the global community.
Image Credits
Photo credit: Fabio Fistarol
