Venezuelan Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Substitute of the Secretariat of State (Vatican), addressed the gathering during the Vatican delegates’ visit to the Raj Bhavan, hosted by Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai on Wednesday, in the presence of Cardinal
PANAJI
Venezuelan Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Substitute of the Secretariat of State (Vatican), shared that Pope Francis has a deep love for India while raising the possibility of the latter’s visit to India. Archbishop Parra also stated that Pope Francis sent his blessings to the nation including Goa, which is hosting the decennial Exposition of the Relics of St Francis Xavier.
“During the last interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pope Francis, I know they spoke about India. I think this (visit) is always possible. He (Pope Francis) has a great love for India, and there is the possibility that when things are all ready, such a visit could happen. That would be really nice,” he said during a brief interaction with the media on Wednesday.
His comments came after a nine-member high-ranking Vatican delegation visited the Exposition at Old Goa. The delegation included several bishops from the Vatican, led by Cardinal-Elect Coordinator of Apostolic Journeys (Pope’s Journeys) Bishop George Koovakad. They were later invited to Raj Bhavan, where Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai hosted a reception.
Archbishop of Goa and Daman Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão expressed confidence that Governor Pillai will ensure an official invitation is sent to the Pope through the Central government.
“I wish and pray that our Governor can play a significant role in ensuring that there is an official written invitation from our Union government to the Holy Father to visit India. “I know that Pope Francis is longing to visit India,” he said.
Archbishop Parra reiterated Pope Francis’ affection for India and Asia, recognising the region as key to the future of the Church and the world. “His Holiness has sent his blessings and greetings to the people of India and Goa. Pope Francis recognises the significance of this region for the future of the Church and humanity,” he said.
He hailed the joint efforts of the Goa government and the Church in managing the large influx of pilgrims attending the event, calling it “an exemplary model of cooperation.”
He further expressed hope for strengthened relations between India and the Vatican citing that the ongoing dialogue fosters mutual respect and unity among people of different faiths. “This unity is essential in today’s world,” he added.
Cardinal Ferrão expressed gratitude for the Vatican’s involvement. “The visit of the Holy See delegation to Goa is a matter of great joy for us. Their presence during the solemn Exposition of St Francis Xavier’s Relics underscores Goa’s significance as a centre of faith and communal harmony,” he expressed.
Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai described the Vatican delegation’s visit as historic. “It offers Goans a unique opportunity to celebrate this moment,” he said.
Revenue Secretary and Exposition Commissioner Sandip Jacques shared that the Vatican delegation participated in the veneration and Mass services. “It was our privilege to serve them. They were happy with the arrangements and had a fulfilling experience,” he said.
