News Desk
Lahore / Peshawar – April 22, 2025
The Christian community in Pakistan joins the world in mourning the death of His Holiness, Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio), the 266th Bishop of Rome, who passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025. The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff died due to complications from double pneumonia. Revered globally for his humility, compassion, and advocacy for justice, Pope Francis served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church since 2013 and leaves behind a legacy that transcends religious and national boundaries.
Prominent church leaders in Pakistan, including The Rt. Rev. Nadeem Kamran, Bishop of Lahore, and Bishop Humphrey Sarfraz Peters of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expressed deep sorrow at the passing of the Pope, praising his lifelong service to the Church and to humanity.
Bishop Nadeem Kamran said in his official statement:
“We express profound sorrow on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. He dedicated his entire life to the service of the Lord and the Church, embodying the true meaning of peace, love, and humility, and showing the world the authentic face of the Church. He was a true ambassador of peace and a tireless advocate for the marginalized, preaching a message of compassion and reconciliation across the globe.”
Highlighting Pope Francis’s deep connection with the poor and vulnerable, Bishop Kamran added, “His humility was rooted in the example of Jesus Christ, and even in his final days, he remained committed to his pastoral mission. On Easter Sunday 2025, despite his frail health, he appeared in St. Peter’s Square delivered a powerful message of hope and light.”
Bishop Humphrey Sarfraz Peters also paid tribute to the late pontiff, calling his contributions to global peace and interfaith harmony “unforgettable.”
“Pope Francis’ leadership brought a message of love, unity, and service—not only to the Christian world but to all of humanity,” said Bishop Peters.
“He will be remembered for his tireless efforts to promote interreligious understanding, social justice, and the dignity of every human being. His simplicity and commitment to the oppressed have left a deep impact on our hearts.”, he maintains
From Pakistan to the Vatican, heartfelt condolences are pouring in, recognizing Pope Francis as a spiritual giant whose papacy spanned 12 years of profound influence. His passing marks the end of an era, but his teachings and example will continue to inspire millions across the world—including in Pakistan—where his commitment to peace, humility, and justice resonated deeply.