Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, April 21, 2025. He was the first Jesuit pontiff in history who captivated the world with his humility and deep concern for migrants, the marginalized, and climate change. His last public appearance was on Easter Sunday—just a day before his passing.

Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata, Fr. Felix Raj, SJ while paying his tribute to Pope Francis, said “I am deeply saddened by the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis. The world has lost a great leader and reformer who challenged tradition and embraced the margins. Pope Francis will be eternally remembered by countless faithful across the globe for his unwavering compassion, profound humility, and courageous spiritual leadership. May he find everlasting peace in the gentle arms of the Divine.”

- Mr. Subhashis Majumdar