“I was deeply moved upon hearing of the Pope’s passing. Though I was exhausted, I felt honored to have seen him just yesterday. His unwavering compassion during the early days of the Covid crisis remains etched in my memory,” shared U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on X, offering his condolences to the global Christian community.
Rahul Gandhi reflected on the Pope’s global stature: “Pope Francis was a beacon of empathy, justice, and peace. He championed the cause of the downtrodden and fearlessly confronted injustice, inspiring millions through his message of love and dignity."
Spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi lamented, “With the passing of His Holiness, the world has lost a radiant symbol of hope, humility, and compassion.”
Recalling a personal encounter, a Swami from the World Parliament of Religions described, “When I met Pope Francis at the Vatican during the centenary of Narayana Gurudevan’s All-Religious Conference, I saw a man whose eyes radiated compassion and whose demeanor reflected Christ-like serenity. He embodied humility, simplicity, and love—true marks of a spiritual guide.”
Azamganandagiri added, “His very presence exuded the tranquility that Christ once brought to the world. His gaze could melt hearts. In him, we found the grace and gentleness of a true representative of Christ.”
Pope Francis was a steadfast voice for social justice and inclusion. He consistently called for solidarity with the marginalized, engaged in sincere dialogue with other faiths, and sharply critiqued the injustices of global capitalism.
He boldly advocated for the poor, the homeless, and the forsaken—asserting that the Church’s mission must be rooted in mercy and service. Born into a context of poverty, his insights into inequality were profound. He urged the world to combat apathy with living compassion.
Championing the rights of marginalized communities, Pope Francis worked to build a Church where all were welcomed—regardless of race, background, or sexual orientation. His bold affirmations drew many back toward the Church.
A fervent supporter of Palestinian rights, the Pope was moved by their suffering and consistently voiced the need for peace and understanding in the region. His ecumenical spirit fostered unity across religions, grounded in a deep appreciation for the shared dignity of all humanity.
On global challenges like poverty, climate change, and environmental degradation, he called for united action—insisting that religious differences must never obstruct collective progress. For Pope Francis, interfaith dialogue was not optional, but essential to peace.
His condemnation of unchecked capitalism was clear and forceful; he believed economic systems must prioritize human welfare over profit.
Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, mourned, “Pope Francis devoted his life to justice, equality, and peace. He served humanity with boundless compassion. His legacy will inspire all who dream of a better world.”
K. Sudhakaran, MP, honored his memory, saying, “Pope Francis, the great shepherd of the Catholic world and a tireless reformer, now rests in eternity. He personified humanism and compassion. I join millions in prayer and remembrance.”