Pope Francis Upheld Message Of Compassion, Inclusiveness And Social Justice: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan
The chief minister highlighted Pope Francis's solidarity with marginalized communities, his friendly relations with followers of other religions, and his sharp criticism of global capitalism.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid heartfelt tributes to Pope Francis, recognizing his steadfast advocacy for compassion, inclusiveness, and a strong commitment to social justice.
The chief minister highlighted Pope Francis's solidarity with marginalized communities, his friendly relations with followers of other religions, and his sharp criticism of global capitalism. He noted that Pope Francis consistently championed the rights of the poor and marginalized.
He emphasized that the Church’s primary duty is to serve the homeless, needy, and abandoned members of society. Pope Francis’s life experiences provided him with a profound understanding of inequality and poverty.
He asserted that the growing indifference in the world must be countered with "living compassion." Throughout his ministry, he stood up for the rights of marginalized individuals and sought to elevate the Church to a level of inclusivity for all.
Pope Francis unequivocally declared that sexual orientation should not be a measure of human dignity, a stance that resonated with many, including those who had distanced themselves from the Church. He also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, empathizing with their suffering and advocating for mutual peace and understanding in the region, the chief minister said.
Vijayan pointed out that Pope Francis led efforts to foster love and cooperation among various religious groups. He recognized the inherent dignity of every person and called on the world to unite against poverty, environmental degradation, and climate change, emphasizing that religious differences should not impede such efforts. The Pope believed that dialogue and coexistence among religions were vital for achieving world peace.
Furthermore, Pope Francis adopted a critical stance against capitalism, arguing that it is a fundamental cause of inequality and poverty. He called for an economic system prioritizing human welfare and dignity over profit, he said.
In his tribute, Pinarayi Vijayan said that Pope Francis stood for a world rooted in justice, peace, and equality, tirelessly working with a compassionate heart towards that vision. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis,” he stated.
