Multi-Faith Memorial Honouring Late Pope Francis Held at Indian Social Institute, Bengaluru

Bengaluru, May 8, 2025: The Indian Social Institute (ISI) Bangalore, in collaboration with the Inter-Religious Harmony Movement, organised a Multi-Faith Memorial and Tribute programme on Thursday, May 8, to honour the life and legacy of the late Pope Francis. The event, held at the ISI premises, paid homage to the pontiff’s profound spiritual leadership and unwavering commitment to peace and compassion. Leaders and representatives from multiple faiths participated in the event, reflecting the late pope's global influence.

The programme opened with a solemn moment of silence in remembrance of Pope Francis and all victims of global violence, including those affected by the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Following this, faith leaders offered floral tributes at the portrait of the pope as a gesture of respect and unity across religious lines.

Fr. Selvaraj Arulnathan SJ delivered the welcome address, greeting all the attendees and reflecting on the many ways Pope Francis touched lives globally through his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice.

A key segment of the event was a presentation by Fr. Denzil Fernandes SJ, Head of the Peace and Reconciliation Unit at ISI Bangalore, titled “Pope Francis: A Global Voice of Peace and Compassion”. Through visuals and commentary, Fr. Fernandes illustrated the late pontiff’s worldwide peacebuilding efforts, environmental advocacy, and notable contributions to the Indian Catholic community, including episcopal appointments and canonisations.

Prominent leaders from various faiths paid heartfelt tributes to Pope Francis, praising his outreach, compassion, and efforts to build bridges across religious divides. Rev. Joseph Susainathan, Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore, hailed the late Pope as a symbol of mercy and dialogue. Representatives from the Hindu, Jain, Muslim, Buddhist, Parsee, Brahma Kumaris, Baha’i, and Tibetan communities also acknowledged his pivotal role in promoting interfaith harmony and standing in solidarity with the marginalised.

Mr. Arif Vakil, co-creator of Sufi Comics, highlighted Pope Francis’ co-signing of the Document on Human Fraternity as a landmark moment in Muslim-Christian relations. The event also featured musical performances and a poetic tribute titled “Lily” by Ms. Assumpta Desai Lobo. The poem expressed the personal inspiration Ms. Assumpta received from the life of Pope Francis.

Fr. Francis Balaraj SJ concluded the event with a message of gratitude and a call to carry forward Pope Francis’ mission of global fraternity, environmental stewardship, and solidarity with the poor.

The memorial served as a testament to Pope Francis’ profound impact across faiths and cultures, fostering a spirit of unity and shared humanity.

By Amith Pereira