Vatican Official Emphasizes India’s Central Role in the Future of the Church
A senior Vatican official stated that the future of both the world and the Church will be shaped by India and Asia, highlighting Pope Francis’ deep affection for India. Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, substitute for the Secretariat of State at the Vatican, made this remark during a reception hosted by Goa Governor P. S. Sreedharan Pillai at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday. The reception was attended by a nine-member Vatican delegation, including Cardinal-designates Archbishop George Jacob Koovakad and Monsignor Rolandas Makrickas, Archpriest of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, along with key church leaders from Goa.
In his speech, Archbishop Parra emphasized the importance of dialogue and communication, especially between the Catholic Church, government authorities, and other religious groups in countries like India. He expressed Pope Francis’ strong connection to India and Asia, acknowledging the region’s vital role in shaping the global future, both spiritually and socially. “We are happy that the Holy Father has India in his heart, and he has Asia in his heart,” Archbishop Parra said.
The delegation had recently paid homage to the relics of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Spanish Jesuit missionary, whose decennial exposition in Goa has attracted millions of visitors. Archbishop Parra noted that this reflects the deep collaboration between the Church and the people of Goa.
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao also expressed his hope that the Goa Governor could help facilitate an official invitation from the Indian government to Pope Francis, who is eager to visit the country. Governor Pillai, in turn, underscored the significance of the event in strengthening the historic relationship between India and the Vatican, promoting unity, respect, and shared values.
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