The Interreligious Forum for Peace and Harmony – Kalaburagi Unit, in collaboration with various Christian denominations, organized a meaningful interfaith program in honour of Pope Francis on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the Community Hall of St. Mary Church, Kalaburagi. The event took place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, drawing the presence of esteemed religious leaders and faithful from different walks of life.
The gathering was a mark of deep respect and admiration for Pope Francis, a global symbol of peace, humility, and dialogue. Various religious leaders shared their reflections on the life, message, and mission of the Holy Father, highlighting his efforts toward peacebuilding, care for the poor, interfaith harmony, and environmental stewardship.
The speakers of the evening included:
- Qazi Rizwan Siddiqui praised Pope Francis as a spiritual shepherd whose life reflects simplicity and sincere compassion. He admired the Pope’s outreach to the poor and marginalized and called him a guiding light for moral leadership in today’s world.
- Sri Gurmit Singh Saluja reflected on the Pope’s life of humility and prayer, recognizing him as a saintly figure who unites hearts across religions. He emphasized that Pope Francis leads not only the Catholic Church but also inspires nations through his voice for justice and peace.
- Fr Maxim Misquith spoke deeply about Pope Francis’ prophetic simplicity and pastoral heart, portraying him as a model of holiness in action. He affirmed that the Pope’s humble leadership has transformed the global Church into a more merciful and inclusive space.
- Fr Joseph Praveen highlighted the Pope’s servant-leadership, calling him a beacon of Christ’s love. He noted how Pope Francis, through his simple lifestyle and deep faith, leads the world towards dialogue, fraternity, and ecological responsibility.
- Sri Manilal Shah admired the Pope for his spiritual authenticity and transparent lifestyle. He described him as a global leader who transcends boundaries and exemplifies values that resonate with all faiths.
- Sr Joseflorin appreciated the Pope’s deep spirituality and concern for the suffering. She noted that his life of holiness and simplicity is a challenge and invitation to all leaders, especially spiritual ones, to live with integrity and compassion.
- Rev Sumant Saradagi honored Pope Francis as a moral compass for our times, whose fearless voice for peace and justice has touched millions. He called him a leader whose influence brings unity in diversity.
- Diwakar Solomon expressed admiration for the Pope’s genuine humility and service-oriented leadership. He shared that Pope Francis’ life is a living example of holiness, charity, and nonviolence.
- Sanjay Makal Nawab Khan acknowledged the Pope as a global messenger of peace, saying that his leadership style—marked by simplicity, truth, and deep faith—makes him a true servant-leader for the world.
As a gesture of love and reverence, all the dignitaries and participants offered rose petals symbolically to Pope Francis, honoring his leadership and vision for a just and peaceful world.
The event was beautifully coordinated by Fr Stany Lobo, whose tireless efforts ensured the success of this heartwarming interreligious and ecumenical celebration. His planning and collaboration with various faith communities made the evening a true expression of harmony and goodwill.
The evening concluded with a sense of shared mission and renewed commitment to foster unity, simplicity, peace, and holiness—the very values that Pope Francis embodies in his service to the world.
