Pope Francis dies at 88; Archbishop of Visakhapatnam Udumala Bala mourns loss
Hyderabad: Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with a lung infection. He served as the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from March 13, 2013, until his death.
Archbishop Udumala Bala of Visakhapatnam expressed deep grief over the Pope’s passing, calling it “a great loss to the Church and society.” Reflecting on his personal connection with the pontiff, Archbishop Bala described Pope Francis as a humble leader who reshaped the image of the papacy.
“He transformed the traditional royal image of the papacy into that of a simple Pope,” the Archbishop said. “He stood firmly for peace and justice, condemned war in strong terms, and consistently advocated peace in Ukraine-Russia and Israel-Palestine.”
Pope Francis was the first South American and the first Jesuit to lead the Church. He was known for his focus on social justice, humility, and care for the marginalized.
Archbishop Bala, who was the first Indian bishop appointed by Pope Francis in 2013 and was recently named Archbishop of Visakhapatnam by him, said he felt personally pained by the Pope’s death. “It was a special bond,” he said.
Pope Francis’ motto, Miserando atque eligendo — “by having mercy, by choosing him” — reflected his pastoral approach and commitment to mercy.
A conclave of cardinals is expected to convene within a month to elect a new pope following the funeral proceedings.
Archbishop Bala extended condolences to the global Catholic community and prayed for the repose of the Pope’s soul.
