Pope Leo XIV made a significant return to the Sanctuary of Our Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, a small medieval village south of Rome, on May 10, 2025. This visit came just two days after he was elected pope and marked his first public appearance in his new role. During the visit, the pope unveiled a newly created fresco that shows him in prayer, now displayed on an upper cornice of the basilica. The sanctuary, which has been a major site of pilgrimage since the 15th century, holds special meaning for the pope, as it is closely associated with his Augustinian religious order, which manages the site. The sanctuary has a long history of welcoming popes, with several past leaders having visited and their portraits displayed on its walls. The tradition dates back to Pope Urban VIII in 1630. Earlier in the 20th century, Pope Leo XIII elevated the sanctuary to the status of a minor basilica and expanded the adjacent convent, further solidifying its importance in the Catholic Church. During a homily delivered at the basilica on Monday, which marked the feast day of the birth of the Virgin Mary, Pope Leo XIV reflected on his recent visit. He referenced a message he had written in the sanctuary’s guest book on May 10, stating that he felt a "deep need and profound desire" to return to the sanctuary after his election to pray before the Madonna of Good Counsel. He described her as a guiding figure in his life, emphasizing her "maternal presence, wisdom, and example of love for her son, who is always the center of my faith." Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Prevost, has visited the sanctuary many times before his election, underscoring the personal significance of the site to him. With the summer season winding down, the Vatican is increasing its activity in preparation for the traditionally busy autumn, which includes numerous conferences, audiences, and diplomatic meetings. The pope is also planning a trip to France later this month, followed by a highly anticipated visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru in November.