Pope Francis: A Bridge of Hope Across Faiths and Borders; A Shepherd of Justice, Peace, Inclusivity and Compassion

The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) joins the global Christian community and all people of goodwill in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a shepherd whose legacy of compassion, inclusion, and justice has left an indelible mark on our world.

Pope Francis stood as a firm and unwavering voice against war and violence. He condemned the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, as well as the Russian and Ukraine war. His passionate plea for peace, dignity, and justice for all peoples—Palestinians and Israelis alike—challenged the conscience of the world. He reminded us that true faith cannot be separated from the cry of the oppressed and the suffering of the innocent.

Pope Francis stood as a compassionate advocate for the protection and dignity of migrants, calling it a “duty of civilisation.” He condemned the rising tide of anti-immigration politics around the world and urged governments and societies to recognize the humanity of those seeking refuge and a better life. His commitment to the care of the displaced, the poor, and the vulnerable continues to be a challenge to all nations and peoples.

Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a visionary spiritual leader but also as a prophetic voice of love and inclusion. His pastoral embrace of the LGBTQI+ community as “children of God” invited churches everywhere to walk more faithfully in the path of Christ, who welcomed the outcast and broke down barriers of discrimination. His courageous stance encouraged many across denominations to re-examine the meaning of grace, belonging, and the radical hospitality of the Gospel.

One of Pope Francis’s most enduring contributions was his tireless pursuit of interfaith harmony. He extended hands of friendship and dialogue to leaders of many faith traditions, fostering relationships grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common longing for peace. From his messages of unity with Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Muslims, he called all of humanity to see one another as brothers and sisters.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable servant of God, we offer our deepest condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), to the global family of the Catholic Church, and to all who drew hope from his life and witness. We pray that his legacy will continue to inspire our shared ecumenical journey toward justice, peace, and inclusive community.

May the God of Peace receive him in eternal rest, and may his memory be a blessing and a call to action.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India