PANAJI
Offering his prayers, heartfelt solidarity and spiritual closeness to the people of India affected by the grave Covid pandemic, Pope Francis also expressed deep appreciation to doctors, nurses, hospital workers and all those working tirelessly to respond to the immediate needs of the people.
The pontiff conveyed his message to Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) from Rome on Thursday.
“At this time when so many in India are suffering as a result of the present health emergency, I am writing to convey my heartfelt solidarity and spiritual closeness to all the Indian people, together with the assurance of my prayers that God will grant healing and consolation to everyone affected by this grave pandemic.”
“My thoughts go above all to the sick and their families, to those who care for them, and in particular to those who are mourning the loss of their loved ones.”
“I think too of the many doctors, nurses, hospital workers, ambulance drivers and those working tirelessly to respond to the immediate needs of their brothers and sisters. With deep appreciation I invoke upon all of them God’s gifts of perseverance, strength and peace,” stated Pope Francis.
He also had a word of praise for the Catholic community involved in works of charity.
“In a particular way, I am united to the Catholic community in your country, with gratitude for its works of charity and fraternal solidarity carried out in the service of all. I think especially of the generosity shown by so many committed young people.”
Pope Francis also prayed for those who lost their lives due to the pandemic.
“I join you in commending to the Lord’s infinite mercy the faithful who have lost their lives, not least the great numbers of priests and men and women religious.”
“In these days of immense grief, may we all be consoled in the hope born of Easter and our unshakeable faith in Christ’s promise of resurrection and new life,” said Pope Francis, while imparting his blessings to the people.
