Inter-religious Meet Bellary vows to carry forward Pope's legacy

Bellary, 28 April 2025: Religious leaders of mainstream religious affiliations held an Inter-religious Prayer Meet on the occasion of the funeral of Pope Francis on April 26 at Bishops House, Bellary.

Led by the city mayor Sri Nandeesh, over 60 religious leaders belonging to many of the mainstream religions paid rich tributes to Pope Francis, a ‘pope of the people’.

In his introductory words Bishop Henry D’Souza described Pope Francis as ‘pope of joy’, full of smiles and joyful energy. His apostolic exhortations, reflected that joy in – The Joy of the Gospel, The Joy of Love, Rejoice and Be Glad and Christ is Alive.

“Pope Franciss four encyclicals - The Light of Faith, Laudato Si - Praise Be to You, Fratelli Tutti - Brothers All, and Dilexit Nos - He Loved Us, addressed vital issues such as faith, ecology, social concerns, and the love of God”, Bishop Henry. 

Pope Francis, the pilgrim Pope, in his 12 years of pontificate, visited 68 countries and promoted ecumenical and inter-religious bonds”, added Bishop.

Religious leaders belonging to Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Lingayat and Buddhism lauded the simplicity of lifestyle, concern for the poor, migrants, prisoners and relentless fight against wars by Pope Francis.

They described him as “universal bridge builder and world’s conscience keeper.”

Many of the pastors belonging to the mainstream churches and evangelical sects lauded pope’s contributions to ecumenical movement and universal brotherhood.

The city mayor Nandeesh and corporator Govindaraju expressed their desire to name an important city square after Pope Francis.

By Bishop Henry D'Souza