Former Archbishop of Bombay, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, on Monday condoled the demise of Pope Francis, whom he recalled as a person continuously engaged in promoting peace, compassion, and for the poor.
Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences over the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta after prolonged illness.
Archbishop of Hyderabad, Cardinal Poola Anthony, on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, and describing him as a "shepherd to the universal Church and a prophetic voice of mercy, justice, and peace in the world".
"He is a man who is with the people. The last ceremony he participated in was a celebration of faith with the people on Easter," he said. After nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiale the process of choosing the next pope begins.
Apart from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and multiple others also condoled the demise of the Pope.
World leaders have expressed deep sorrow and paid heartfelt tributes following the passing of Pope Francis, remembering him as a compassionate spiritual leader.
"I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God's embrace," the Prime Minister said.
Among the 135 cardinals currently eligible to vote in the papal conclave, four are from India. These include Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, Cardinal Anthony Poola, and Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad.
The 88-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church was recently discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he spent five weeks receiving treatment for an infection that led to double pneumonia.
During her official visit to the US, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership while addressing the Indian diaspora in San Francisco, highlighting governance, technology, and renewable energy achievements.
Upon her arrival, she was received by Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Ambassador of India to the US, and Srikar Reddy Koppula, Consul General of India in San Francisco.