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Kolkata bids adieu to Pope Francis in solemn Thanksgiving Service

Kolkata, May 3 (UNI) In a moving service of remembrance and gratitude, the Bengal Christian Council organised a Thanksgiving Service on Saturday evening at St Paul's Cathedral, Kolkata, to honour the life and legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, Easter Monday, at the age of 88.
Organised by the Bengal Christian Council (BCC) under the leadership of The Rt Rev Dr Paritosh Canning, Bishop of Calcutta and President of the BCC, the Thanksgiving Service honoured the life and ministry of Pope Francis who transcended borders with his message of compassion, humility and inclusion.
The Rt Revd Subrata Chakraborty, Bishop of the Barrackpore Diocese, extended a gracious welcome to the ecumenical gathering.
"We welcome each and every one of you as we come together in prayer, thanksgiving, reminiscing and reflecting while thanking God for the enduring legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis."
The service began with soft music and Church leaders came forward to offer floral tributes in silence. A trumpet fanfare followed, and the Cathedral choir sang in honour of the late Pontiff, creating a moving atmosphere of reverence.
The Rt Rev Dr Paritosh Canning, Bishop of Calcutta and President of the BCC, stated, "Pope Francis wanted to establish the kingdom of Jesus Christ on earth and took upon himself to spread happiness, stop wars, work for the marginalised and act on the principles of the almighty."
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis was the first Latin American, the first Jesuit and the first to assume the name Francis. Key aspects of his leadership included advocating for migrants, approval of blessings for same-sex couples, bold stances on climate change and a heartfelt emphasis on mercy over dogma.
The service ended with a final hymn and a quiet moment of prayer.
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