PM Modi Reflects on Pope Francis' Legacy of Compassion and Humility
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, who died at 88. He emphasized the Pope's legacy as a beacon of compassion and humility, recalling their meetings and the Pope's dedication to serving the underprivileged.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi expresses sorrow over Pope Francis's death.
- Pope Francis remembered as a beacon of compassion.
- His dedication to the poor and downtrodden.
- Significant meetings between PM Modi and the Pope.
- India maintains strong ties with The Holy See.
New Delhi/Vatican City, April 21 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
In a heartfelt tribute, PM Modi fondly remembered his interactions with the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, stating that Pope Francis will be eternally recognized as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions worldwide.
"I am deeply saddened by the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this moment of sorrow and reflection, I extend my sincere condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions across the globe," PM Modi conveyed in his condolence message.
"From an early age, he dedicated his life to embodying the teachings of Lord Christ. He tirelessly served the underprivileged and those in need. For many who faced hardship, he sparked a flame of hope. I cherish my memories of our interactions and was profoundly moved by his dedication to inclusive and comprehensive development. His love for the people of India will forever be treasured. May his soul find everlasting peace in the embrace of God," he added.
Pope Francis had been battling respiratory issues and pneumonia for an extended period before he passed away at 7:35 am on Monday, as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, later that afternoon, India time.
During their meetings, PM Modi consistently admired the Pope's commitment to serving humanity and had extended an invitation for him to visit India soon.
"I met Pope Francis during the G7 Summit. I admire his dedication to improving our planet and also invited him to India," the Prime Minister shared on X after their encounter at the G7 Summit's Outreach Session in Borgo Egnazia last year.
In October 2021, Pope Francis welcomed PM Modi for a private audience at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican, marking the first meeting between an Indian Prime Minister and the Pope in over two decades.
In June 2000, the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee last visited the Vatican and met with then-Pope John Paul II.
India and The Holy See have maintained amicable relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1948, with India being home to the second-largest Catholic population in Asia.
