Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 22: The Archdiocese of Bengaluru joined the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a towering spiritual leader who championed the cause of the poor, advocated for environmental protection, and offered moral guidance on emerging global challenges like Artificial Intelligence.
Reverend Cyril Victor Joseph, Director of the Archdiocese Communication Centre, paid rich tributes to the late pontiff, recalling his leadership as “compassionate, courageous, and visionary.”
“It’s indeed a great loss for the Church and for humanity,” he said. “Pope Francis was a true shepherd who constantly reminded us of God’s mercy. His initiatives were deeply rooted in compassion and his papacy inspired hope, especially among the poor and marginalised.”
Reflecting on the Holy Father’s global influence, Reverend Cyril remarked that Pope Francis transcended religious boundaries. “He was more than just the leader of the Catholic Church—he was a voice of conscience for the world. He cared deeply for the environment, issuing Laudato Si’, the Church’s first encyclical on ecology, urging all to protect our common home.”
Sharing a personal memory, Reverend Cyril said, “During my doctoral studies in Rome, I had the privilege of seeing Pope Francis in the United States. People fondly called him a ‘tree hugger’—a tribute to his unwavering commitment to nature.”
The Archdiocese also acknowledged Pope Francis’s forward-thinking stance on technological ethics. “He was one of the few global leaders to openly speak about the dangers and responsibilities surrounding Artificial Intelligence. His call for ethical reflection on AI’s impact on human life was profound,” Rev Cyril added.
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), has already issued a circular urging churches across the country to observe a time of mourning. Special prayers, Holy Masses, and remembrance services will be held in parishes throughout India in the days ahead.
Joining the expressions of grief, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said, “Saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American Pope. His legacy of humility, service to the poor, and concern for the environment will live on. He redefined what it means to lead with grace and compassion.”
As the Catholic world awaits details of the funeral, the Archdiocese urged the faithful to offer prayers for the repose of Pope Francis’s soul and to continue walking the path of justice, mercy, and care for creation, which he so passionately lived and preached.