His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader and president of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community worldwide following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday.
In a formal letter addressed to the members of the Roman Catholic Church, Mahant Swami Maharaj conveyed the deep sorrow of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu fellowship, acknowledging the Pope's passing as “a profound loss to the Catholic community and Christians around the world.”
The letter highlighted Pope Francis's legacy as “a beacon of hope, compassion, and unity,” praising his efforts in promoting social justice, environmental stewardship, and peace-building. Mahant Swami Maharaj also emphasised the Pope's commitment to the marginalized and his call for global solidarity, noting their resonance with the values held within the Hindu tradition.
“We commend his endeavours to build bridges between different faiths, including his promotion of respect for the Hindu community and other religious traditions,” the letter 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.”
In addition to the letter of condolences, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami and the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi offered their heartfelt sympathies on the passing of Pope Francis.
Pujya Brahmavihari Swami recalled Pope Francis's “humility and unwavering commitment to human dignity,” which he said “touched hearts across the world.”
He specifically referenced the historic signing of the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi on February 4, 2019, a moment he described as symbolising “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,” Pujya Brahmavihari Swami concluded.
