President Droupadi Murmu pays homage to Pope Francis at Vatican
In a poignant gesture, President Droupadi Murmu paid her respects to the late Pope Francis at St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Friday. Accompanied by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister of State (MoS) George Kurian, the President visited the iconic cathedral to pay homage to the Pope, who passed away on April 21 due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure.
The funeral mass of Pope Francis is scheduled to take place on Saturday, and President Murmu will be in attendance. This visit is a significant gesture of respect and solidarity from the Indian government to the Vatican City, marking a moment of mourning and reflection for the global Catholic community.
Pope Francis, who was 84 at the time of his passing, was known for his progressive views and commitment to social justice. During his papacy, he was a vocal advocate for issues such as climate change, poverty, and immigration, earning him widespread admiration and respect from around the world.
President Murmu’s visit to St Peter’s Basilica was a somber reminder of the Pope’s immense influence and legacy. As she paid her respects, she was surrounded by the stunning architecture and ornate decorations of the basilica, which was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the holiest sites in Christendom.
The President’s delegation was received by the Vatican authorities, who accorded them a warm welcome. The dignitaries offered prayers and laid wreaths at the altar, paying tribute to the Pope’s life and service to the Catholic Church.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City today. She was accompanied by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Union MoS George Kurian. The President will attend the Funeral Mass of Pope Francis, scheduled to take place on Saturday.”
The MEA statement also praised Pope Francis for his “selfless service to humanity” and his “unwavering commitment to promoting peace, justice, and tolerance.” The President’s visit is seen as a reflection of India’s strong ties with the Vatican City and its commitment to fostering greater understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
Pope Francis’s passing has sent shockwaves around the world, with world leaders and religious leaders paying tribute to his life and legacy. The Indian government has also expressed its condolences to the Vatican City, offering its deepest sympathies to the Catholic community.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, President Murmu’s visit to St Peter’s Basilica serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds between India and the Vatican City. The President’s presence at the funeral mass on Saturday will be a powerful symbol of India’s respect and solidarity with the Catholic community, as they bid farewell to a man who dedicated his life to serving humanity.
