PANAJI
Archbishop of Goa and Daman Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão along with Rectors of 29 Basilicas across India pay tribute to late Pope Francis at a solemn gathering in the CCBI Secretariat Extension at Benaulim on Wednesday.
“We have lost a compassionate and courageous shepherd,” said Cardinal Ferrão, while paying tribute to the late Pope Francis during a solemn gathering.
Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, the Cardinal said, “Pope Francis dreamed of a Church that listens, walks together and welcomes all. He showed deep compassion for the poor and the marginalised, especially migrants.”
“His efforts for peace and dialogue among nations will never be forgotten,” said Cardinal Ferrão, who also serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).
The ceremony of tribute to the departed Pope brought together the Rectors of the 29 Basilicas in India, along with Rev. Dr Stephen Alathara, Rev. Dr Joe Xavier, S.J., Rev. Dr Christopher Vimalraj, Fr Vignan Das, Fr Duming Gonsalves and Fr Arulraj, who joined in remembering the beloved pontiff.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. His funeral will be held at the Vatican on Saturday.
