Dear Esteemed Members of the Jesuit Family in Delhi Province,
We stand together in sorrow as we bid farewell to Pope Francis, a towering figure of compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity. As the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, he inspired countless individuals worldwide, including our Jesuit community, to live the values of love, mercy, and justice.
During his remarkable papacy, Pope Francis touched the hearts of millions with his simplicity, kindness, and prophetic voice. He reminded us of the importance of caring for our common home, advocating tirelessly for environmental stewardship and sustainability. His encyclical, Laudato Si’, continues to guide our reflections on the interconnectedness of human dignity and the well-being of our planet.
As a Jesuit pope, Francis embodied the Ignatian values of discernment, contemplation, and service. He encouraged us to seek God in all things, to find God in everyone, and to serve others with generosity and compassion. His leadership inspired a renewed focus on social justice, interfaith dialogue, and outreach to the marginalized.
In our Jesuit schools and institutions, we strive to live out the values that Pope Francis embodied. We are called to educate and form individuals who are discerning, compassionate, and committed to serving others. Pope Francis’ legacy challenges us to be more attentive to the needs of the poor, the vulnerable, and the excluded.
As we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, we take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and the institutions he inspired. Let us pay tribute to his legacy by reaffirming our Jesuit charism in our schools, colleges, and communities. May his memory continue to ignite our passion for serving others, especially those who are most in need.
In this moment of sorrow, we entrust Pope Francis to the loving care of our Heavenly Father. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire us to build a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Soosai Mani SJ
President, Delhi Jesuit Society