Muscat: On Monday, the Roman Catholic community in Oman joined millions worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who was celebrated as a humble leader of peace and a relentless advocate for the impoverished.
The Vatican announced that the 266th pope had died earlier that day at the age of 88.
In honoring the late pontiff’s life and contributions, Fr. George Vadukkut OFM Cap, the Priest-in-Charge of Catholic Churches in Oman and the Parish Priest at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Ghala, delivered a moving tribute that resonated deeply with the faithful throughout the Sultanate.
“Today, Heaven welcomes a shepherd of souls, a prophet of peace, a friend of the poor,” Fr. George remarked. “The Church has lost a father, but Heaven has gained a saint.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, joined the Jesuit order in 1958 and was ordained as a priest in 1969. He ascended through the Church’s ranks with a compassionate focus on serving the marginalized, ultimately becoming the Archbishop of Buenos Aires and later a cardinal.
His election as pope on March 13, 2013, marked a significant moment in the contemporary Church, as he became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first to adopt the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.
Fr. George reflected, “He envisioned a Church that is ‘poor and for the poor.’ He prioritized simplicity over opulence and mercy over condemnation.”
Pope Francis’ papacy was characterized by a steadfast dedication to interfaith dialogue, environmental stewardship, and global solidarity. For Catholics in Oman, a pivotal moment during his tenure was the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Sultanate of Oman, a move that fostered greater mutual respect and recognition between the Vatican and the predominantly Muslim nation known for its religious tolerance.
“That moment was incredibly significant for us here in Oman,” Fr. George shared with Times of Oman on Monday.
It represented the strengthening bond among faith communities and highlighted Oman’s position as a nation of peace and coexistence.
A significant moment in Pope Francis’ journey occurred during his 2019 visit to the Arabian Peninsula, marking the first time a pope had ever traveled there.
During this visit, he collaborated with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar in Abu Dhabi to sign the Document on Human Fraternity, which advocates for global unity and interfaith dialogue.
Fr. George, who has had the honor of meeting Pope Francis several times, remarked, “Every meeting with him was a moment of grace. His kind eyes reflected the very essence of Christ.”
As Oman’s Catholic community grieves this profound loss, Fr. George emphasized that the most fitting tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy is to embody the values he championed.
“He encouraged us to construct bridges rather than barriers, to accompany those in pain, and to serve the marginalized. His teachings continue to resonate as a living Gospel.”
A special memorial mass is anticipated to take place in Muscat this week, where the faithful will come together to express gratitude for a life that inspired countless individuals.
