“Caritas Asia with her Member Organizations, stakeholders, well-wishers and communities mourn for the death of our Loving Holy Father-POPE FRANCIS” We join the world community in mourning and prayer.
The world stands in shock and awe at the sudden passing of our Holy Father- Pope Francis, a leader whose presence radiated compassion, courage, unwavering Hope and faith. His death has left a profound void in the hearts of millions across the world; people of all faiths and walks of life who were touched by his authenticity, his relentless pursuit of peace, and his deep love for humanity and the creation. In a time marked by division due to greed for power, fame and uncertainty, he was a cementing force of unity and hope. As we mourn this immense loss, we also remember the life and light he shared — a light that will continue to guide us in our journey toward justice, mercy, hope and care for our common home. For Asia Region, he had left us a fresh impression with his recent trip to the region in 2024.
“Your Footprints are fresh and reminding us to follow your footsteps- Holy Father”.

We join our hands in gratitude and prayer for his great leadership: God our loving father we thank you for the life and leadership of His faithful servant, who led his flocks with authenticity, honesty, and a heart full of grace and compassion.
Blessed with charisma, vision and empathy, he strove for peace and harmony, embracing all people and all creation with deep care.

May his legacy inspire us to serve selflessly, to build an inclusive world and to continue to follow his footsteps of caring for all and our common home.

Grant his soul eternal rest and may heaven open and angels welcome his soul. Amen.

(photo from Caritas Internationalis media)

Your Eminences, Excellencies, Respected Participants, Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Firstly, on behalf of Caritas Asia member organizations, I would express my deep condolences and offer prayers for the families and communities impacted by the recent earthquakes. We also would affirm our unwavering support for the affected people.

Secondly, we will continue to accompany the church leaders and Caritas colleagues, starting from the community, parish, diocese and national levels with our prayers so that they can do their best in providing the humanitarian services respecting the preferences of the local community, observing the required policies of the governments, maintaining the international standards, and, above all, the principle of inclusiveness.

Thirdly, thanks to all colleagues of CI, Caritas Global Member Organizations who have already been active with their various emergency assessments and supports, and to those Caritas Member Organizations who are mobilizing resources to be active soon for assisting our brothers and sisters needing life-saving support. My sincere requests to you all are:

• to follow as much as possible the Single Results Framework developed by KMSS/Caritas Myanmar and CRS;
• to ensure strict implementation of safeguarding guidelines at all levels, and with all stakeholders; and
• to be better coordinated by the national Caritas – KMSS/Caritas Myanmar.

Let us all be inspired by the call of our Holy Father, Pope Francis to join the people of
Myanmar in solidarity as they face another crisis following earthquakes. In solidarity and prayer,

Benedict Alo D’Rozario, President, Caritas Asia

Caritas Asia President, Dr. Benedict Alo D'Rozario, joined Caritas Sri Lanka for the 20th YEAR REMEMBRANCE OF TSUNAMI EVENT - “Memories of an Empowering Journey of Resilience” and Caritas Sri Lanka Partner's Forum on 17-18 February 2025. In his speech, Dr. Alo reflected on Caritas’ identity and fraternal cooperation, emphasizing the importance of unity among regional Caritas organizations in addressing common challenges such as climate change,
migration, and economic disparities.

Read the full story here.

Photo by Caritas Sri Lanka