Pope Francis held India, PM close to his heart

S PM Narendra Modi rightly observed, His Holiness Pope Francis was a "beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage" in a world fraught with conflicts, violence and despair.

- GEORGE KURIAN Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying

His passing has left a profound void that is difficult to fill, marking the end of an era defined by unwavering dedication to unity and hope.

Despite being the supreme leader of the Catholic Church, he transcended regional, religious, and cultural divides to become a voice for the voiceless—a true statesman and spiritual guide who exemplified the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, infused the papacy with a sense of purpose, emerging as a transformative leader in the Catholic Church. He led by example, embodying the principles he championed throughout his papacy.