Icon of the Madonna
in the Basilica of Mary Major

      Dejectedly, Paul walked away after being denied 
      entry to see the Pope and he wandered into  
      the Chapel of the Madonna in the Basilica of
      Mary Major where he knelt before the icon of
      Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms.

      This icon, known as Salus Populi Romani,
       is said to have been painted by St Luke.

     After praying for understanding, Paul made a vow  
     before the icon of Mary to promote the memory
     of the Passion of Jesus and to work to gather
     companions for this purpose.

     Thus  today,  we  are  blessed  to  have  the
     Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ -
      The Passionists.

      Click here (#)  to return to St Paul of the Cross article.

                    Click here  (PI)  to return to Passionist Institute 2007 article.