BAPS spiritual guru Mahant Swami Maharaj condoles demise of Pope Francis

Abu Dhabi, April 22: The spiritual guru of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), Mahant Swami Maharaj, has sent a letter of condolences and prayers to the Catholic community following Pope Francis's passing at the age of 88. In the letter, Mahant Swami Maharaj extended deepest condolences on behalf of the worldwide BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu fellowship, saying, "Pope Francis' departure is a profound loss to the Catholic community and Christians around the world," according to a release.

"Pope Francis will be remembered as a beacon of hope, compassion, and unity. His efforts to promote social justice, environmental stewardship, and peace-building have left an indelible mark. His commitment to the marginalised and his call for global solidarity resonated deeply with the values we hold dear in our own tradition," Mahant Swami Maharaj said.

Mahant Swami Maharaj commended Pope Francis endeavours to build bridges between different faiths, including his promotion of respect for the Hindu community and other religious traditions, the release stated.

"In this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with you. We share in your sorrow and pray to God and all the divine energies that you find comfort in the legacy of simplicity and compassion that Pope Francis strove to promote," he said. In addition to Mahant Swami Maharaj's letter of condolences, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami and the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi offered their heartfelt sympathies, the release added.

Pujya Brahmavihari Swami added, "His humility and unwavering commitment to human dignity touched hearts across the world. We fondly remember his presence at the historic signing of the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi on 4 February 2019--a moment that symbolized hope, unity, and a future built on mutual respect. His deep respect for all faiths, including the Indian and Hindu communities, opened new paths for understanding and harmony."

The pope died of a stroke followed by heart failure on Monday at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. His death was also affected by other ailments, including a "previous episode of acute respiratory failure," arterial hypertension and type II diabetes, Vatican's press office said in a statement.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28, 2013, a papal conclave elected Cardinal Bergoglio as his successor on March 13. He chose Francis as his papal name in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Reader Comments

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Sarah K.

Such a beautiful gesture of interfaith solidarity. Pope Francis truly was a light in this world. May his legacy continue to inspire us all to build bridges between communities. 🙏

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Rajesh P.

As a Hindu, I really appreciate Mahant Swami Maharaj's words. Pope Francis was one of the few Christian leaders who genuinely respected other faiths. The world needs more leaders like him.

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Michael T.

While I respect the sentiment, I wish the article had included more about Pope Francis's actual theological contributions rather than just interfaith work. He was a complex figure who made some controversial decisions within the Church.

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Amina J.

The Human Fraternity Document signing in Abu Dhabi was historic indeed! I was there that day and the energy was electric. Two great spiritual leaders coming together - we need more of this in our divided world.

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David L.

Rest in peace, Pope Francis. Your message of caring for the poor and the planet will never be forgotten. The world feels a little darker without you.

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Priya M.

Beautiful to see Hindu leaders honoring the Pope's passing. This is what true spirituality looks like - recognizing the goodness in all traditions. Heartwarming to read.

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