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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, calling him a “beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage.”
The Vatican announced that the 266th head of the Catholic Church passed away early this morning at the age of 88.
PM Modi Pays Tribute on Social Media
In a heartfelt message on X, PM Modi extended his condolences to the global Catholic community. “Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community,” he wrote.
Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt 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… pic.twitter.com/QKod5yTXrB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2025
PM Modi praised the Pope’s lifelong service to the poor and his unwavering commitment to Christ’s teachings. “From a young age, he devoted himself to realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden, and ignited a spirit of hope in those who were suffering,” he added.
Recalls Personal Meetings With Pope
The Prime Minister fondly recalled his meetings with the Pontiff, especially during the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, where they shared a warm embrace. “I admire his commitment to serve people and make our planet better,” PM Modi had said after the meeting. He also extended an invitation for Pope Francis to visit India.
PM Modi first met Pope Francis in 2021 at the Vatican, where the two leaders discussed a wide range of global issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Union Minister George Kurian Also Offers Condolences
Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian also mourned the Pope’s passing. “Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A profound loss for the global community. His life of service, compassion, and faith touched millions,” Kurian said.
Kurian, who had visited the Vatican in 2023 for the ordination of Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad from Kerala, had earlier stated that Pope Francis was expected to visit India after 2025 as part of the Church’s Jubilee Year celebrations.
Vatican Announces Simplified Funeral Rites
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced the Pope’s death.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, confirmed that Pope Francis had requested simplified funeral rites.
The Vatican will place the Pope’s body in a coffin and display it at St. Peter’s Basilica, where daily masses will be held during a nine-day mourning period known as Novendiales.
The Pope must be buried between the fourth and sixth day after his death.
Conclave To Elect New Pope Begins Soon
Following the mourning period, all cardinals under the age of 80 will gather in Vatican City for the Papal Conclave to elect the next head of the Catholic Church.
The process could take between two and three weeks.
Last Public Appearance Came On Easter Sunday
Just one day before his death, Pope Francis delivered his Easter message from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to thousands gathered in Vatican Square.
He had recently been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after spending five weeks being treated for an infection that developed into double pneumonia.
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