"Great loss to humankind": Union Minister George Kurian mourns Pope Francis' death

Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian on Monday expressed his deep sadness at the demise of Pope Francis who passed away today, April 21.
 

"Pope Francis was a holy person. He stood for peace and justice. He wanted justice for the refugees all over the world and peace in the war-ridden countries," speaking to ANI in Guwahati, Assam.
 

He further said, "He loved all human beings. He is a people's Pope as everyone says that. He gave a message of peace to all the human beings. It is a great loss to humankind."
 

Kurian said that the death of Pope Francis is a profound loss for the global community. 
 

The 266th Catholic Church leader died this morning at his residence and the announcement was made by Cardinal Farrell, camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
 

Kurien had last year in December told reporters that head of the Catholic Church is likely to visit India after 2025 in the backdrop of the Church's celebration of its Jubilee Year.
 

The minister had traveled to the Vatican for the ordination of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad, a native of Kerala, who was elevated to Cardinal by Pope Francis.
 

Meanwhile, the Vatican said that the ascertainment of death of the Pope takes place in the chapel, rather than in the room where he died, and his body is immediately placed inside the coffin.
 

According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, the late Pope Francis had requested that the funeral rites be simplified.
 

The "Papal Interregnum" -- the period between the death of one pope and the election of another began when Francis passed away.