Press Statement - Pope Francs Passes Away

Archdiocese of Bombay 21 April 2025

PRESS STATEMENT From Archbishop John Rodrigues and Cardinal Oswald Gracias

It is with profound sorrow that we, the Archdiocese of Bombay, join the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who returned to the Father at 7:35 AM today, 21st April 2025, at Casa Santa Marta. Our hearts ache with grief as we bid farewell to our beloved Holy Father—Supreme Pontiff, Vicar of Christ, and successor of St. Peter. His departure leaves an immeasurable void in the Universal Church and in the hearts of India’s faithful, who cherished his prophetic voice and tender compassion.

Pope Francis, a shepherd of boundless mercy, lived the Gospel by walking alongside the marginalized, advocating for peace, and tirelessly calling the Church to be a refuge of healing. His pontificate radiated hope for the poor, the displaced, and all who longed to feel Christ’s embrace. Even in his final days, he exemplified steadfast faith, returning to Casa Santa Marta after 38 days of hospitalization for pneumonia —a battle rooted in lifelong respiratory challenges that began in his youth in Argentina.

Archbishop John Rodrigues shared: “Pope Francis taught us to find Christ in those the world overlooks. His humility, his dream of ‘a poor Church for the poor,’ and his courage to engage a wounded world transformed not only the Church but countless souls. While we mourn, we also give thanks for a legacy that will live on in every heart stirred by his example.”

Cardinal Oswald Gracias reflected: “The Holy Father’s vision knew no boundaries. He urged us to be bridge-builders in a divided world, and his reforms — even to funeral rites — emphasized simplicity and faith in the Risen Lord. He led not as a monarch, but as a disciple. In our sorrow, let us honour him by embracing his mission: to be pilgrims of hope and witnesses of mercy.”

As we await details of the funeral rites, guided by the updated Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis—a liturgy Pope Francis himself revised to reflect pastoral dignity and simplicity—we invite the faithful to gather in prayer at Eucharistic celebrations across the Archdiocese. Together, let us entrust his soul to God, confident in the resurrection he proclaimed with unwavering joy.

“May the Mother of the Church, whom he loved so deeply, intercede for him. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

Media Contact Fr. Nigel Barrett Spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Bombay