Pope Francis Passes Away: Interfaith Condolence Gathering in Bengaluru Mourns Global Christian Leader
Bengaluru | April 23, 2025
An air of grief and reverence descended upon St. Mary’s Basilica in Shivajinagar, Bengaluru, as an interfaith condolence prayer was held in memory of Pope Francis, the spiritual head of the Roman Catholic Church, who passed away recently. The program, convened by social activist Dr. Yoonas Jones, drew a diverse crowd of religious leaders, community members, and spiritual devotees, united in mourning the loss of a towering global moral voice.
A Gathering of Faith and Solidarity
Among those present were Rev. Fr. Joseph, Rev. Fr. Albert David, Sufi Waliba Khadri, Sisters of St. Joseph’s Congregation, Pastor Raju, Pastor Venkatesh Naik, and community figures including Wilfred Meshaq, John Bosco Prabhu, Janardhan, Manglin Jerry, Guna Shekar, Vasudha, Stallion, Mathew, Asma Khanam, and Khaleel. Devotees from across Bengaluru filled the church premises, lighting candles and offering prayers in memory of the late Pope.
“Pope Francis was not only a spiritual leader for Catholics, but a voice of conscience for all humanity,” said Rev. Fr. Albert David. “He stood firmly for the poor, the marginalized, and the suffering—his loss is felt across all faiths.”
Pope Francis’ Final Plea: A Call for Peace in Gaza
In one of his final public messages, Pope Francis made a heartfelt appeal for peace in the war-torn Gaza Strip. Amid escalating violence and mounting civilian casualties, the pontiff used his platform to urge a ceasefire and humanitarian relief, especially for the beleaguered Christian community in the region.
“I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction and to create a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation,” Pope Francis said in his last address. His words, while measured, were widely seen as a critique of the international community’s indifference to what many human rights organizations have called a genocide in Gaza.
Since October 2023, more than 51,200 Palestinians have been killed in the region, according to humanitarian reports, with the situation worsening by the day. Pope Francis had consistently expressed solidarity with both Palestinians and Israelis, emphasizing the shared humanity and need for peaceful coexistence.
“I express my closeness to the sufferings of Christians in Palestine and Israel, and to all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to a vision of peace and compassion in a deeply divided region.
A Legacy of Humility, Compassion, and Courage
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was revered for his humility, simplicity, and fearless advocacy for justice. From washing the feet of refugees to challenging world leaders on climate change and inequality, he broke new ground in how spiritual leadership could intersect with social activism.
His stance on interfaith dialogue and universal brotherhood also resonated deeply with many in India. “He was a bridge-builder,” said Sufi Waliba Khadri at the condolence gathering. “He showed the world that spiritual strength comes from embracing others, not excluding them.”
A Nation and a World in Mourning
Across the world, messages of condolence have poured in from religious leaders, political figures, and ordinary citizens. The Vatican is expected to announce the funeral arrangements soon, with dignitaries from across the globe expected to attend.
Back in Bengaluru, the interfaith prayer at St. Mary’s Basilica concluded with a symbolic lighting of candles and a moment of silence, as attendees pledged to carry forward Pope Francis’ message of peace, justice, and compassion.
In an era marked by conflict and division, the passing of Pope Francis is being mourned not just as the loss of a religious figure, but as the departure of a moral compass for the global community.
💬 Statements
Rev. Fr. Joseph
“He taught us that faith without justice is empty. His cry for Gaza in his final hours was a prayer for all humanity.”
Dr. Yoonas Jones
“Even as his body grew weak, his conscience stood tall. He reminded the world that the people of Gaza are not forgotten.”
Pastor Raju
“He spoke for the voiceless. His death is a loss not just for Christians, but for every human soul that longs for justice.”
Asma Khanam
“His love transcended borders. Palestine had a place in his heart because he saw their pain, and he dared to speak it.”
🧾 Memorials
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“He didn’t just speak of peace — he made it his dying breath. Gaza was not just a place to him; it was a wound he tried to heal.” — Sufi Waliba Khadri
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“Pope Francis leaves behind more than a legacy — he leaves us a moral compass. His last direction? Look to Gaza.” — Pastor Venkatesh Naik
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“When the world turned its face away from genocide, he turned toward it with tears, prayer, and courage.” — John Bosco Prabhu
