Interfaith Prayer Service In Mumbai Honors Pope Francis' Legacy Of Compassion And Dialogue

The Archdiocese of Bombay hosted an interfaith prayer service on Friday to honour Pope Francis and his message of compassion, dialogue, and fraternity.

The event, held at Archbishop House Conference Hall, Colaba, was attended by C P Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra, and religious leaders from the Hindu, Muslim, Zoroastrian, Baha'i, Ahmadiyya, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain communities, diplomats, and members of the Catholic Church.

Archbishop of Bombay John Rodrigues shared his anecdotes of encounters with Pope Francis, highlighting the late Pontiff’s love for the poor and his ability to bridge divides. He urged attendees to embody this spirit, saying, 'Let us become artisans of peace, mending the fractures in our world through small acts of mercy.' The service opened with the hymn 'Make Me a Channel of Your Peace' —a tribute to St Francis of Assisi and a favourite of Pope Francis.

The dignitaries offered floral tributes. A specially curated video underscored his humility, global vision, and dedication to marginalised communities, resonating deeply with attendees. Martin Maier, Consul General of Switzerland and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, praised the Pope’s advocacy for peace, stating, “His Holiness reminds us that dialogue and solidarity are the cornerstones of a just world.”  Archbishop John thanked the Governor for expressing his desire to be part of the memorial service.  The Governor's presence at the interfaith meeting is a testament to India’s pluralistic ethos and the universal values Pope Francis embodies, the Archbishop said.  

The service concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to serve as “ambassadors of love and peace,” inspired by the Pope’s legacy.

As the Archbishop noted, “In a world yearning for healing, we are called to be channels of God’s grace, just as Pope Francis urged.”  

The funeral service of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, will be held today in Rome at 10.00 am local time. The outdoor service is expected to be attended by dignitaries from over 150 countries.

Following his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica outside Vatican City, where he prayed regularly, and not in the grottoes under St Peter's Basilica like other Popes. 

A nine-day mourning will be followed by the conclave of 135 Cardinals to elect the new Pope. Among the electors are four Cardinals from India.