Interfaith Prayer Service in Mumbai Honors Pope Francis’ Message of Peace and Unity

Mumbai, April 25, 2025 — The Archdiocese of Bombay organised an interfaith prayer service on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Conference Hall of the Archbishop’s House in Mumbai. The event brought together religious leaders from the Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, and Christian communities, along with the Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, diplomats, and members of the Catholic faithful. The gathering aimed to celebrate the Pontiff’s enduring legacy and foster interreligious solidarity.

The service opened with the hymn "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace", a tribute to St. Francis of Assisi and a favorite of Pope Francis, setting a reflective tone for the event. Attendees united in prayer for the intentions of the universal Church, culminating in the recitation of the Our Father, a moment that underscored shared spiritual aspirations across faiths.

In a mark of respect and reverence, dignitaries offered floral tributes to honour the Pope’s life and vision. A specially curated video presentation highlighted Pope Francis’ humility, global vision, and his unwavering commitment to marginalized communities, which struck a chord with those present.

Martin Maier, Consul General of Switzerland and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, lauded the Pope’s role as a peacemaker, stating, “His Holiness reminds us that dialogue and solidarity are the cornerstones of a just world.”

Archbishop John Rodrigues of Bombay shared personal memories of Pope Francis, emphasising the Pontiff’s “radical love for the poor and his ability to bridge divides.” He encouraged all attendees to embody these values, urging, “Let us become artisans of peace, mending the fractures in our world through small acts of mercy.”

Expressing gratitude for the Governor’s presence, Archbishop Rodrigues remarked that Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan’s participation reflected India’s pluralistic ethos and the universal values espoused by Pope Francis.

The service concluded with a collective commitment to serve as “ambassadors of love and peace.” Archbishop Rodrigues reminded the gathering, “In a world yearning for healing, we are called to be channels of God’s grace, just as Pope Francis urged.”

This solemn and inclusive gathering not only paid tribute to Pope Francis but also underscored the power of interfaith collaboration in addressing global challenges, sending a message of hope and unity far beyond Mumbai.

By Fr. Nigel Barrett.

Images by Catholic Communications Centre, Archdiocese of Bombay