Following the first article in this series, published in the December issue of Magnet, Sr. Celine continues her exploration of Pope Paul VI’s historic visit to India. Marking its 60th anniversary, this second article delves into the profound impact of the 38th International Eucharistic Congress, the vision of Vatican II, and the Pope’s tireless commitment to peace and inter-religious dialogue. The article highlights the enduring legacy of a Pontiff who exemplified humility, unity, and a transformative vision for humanity.
The visit of Paul VI to Bombay was a decisive success for the Catholic Church and the Indian Government. This humble Pilgrim of God got a reception – the highest manifestation of reverence, so full of cordiality and esteem, that no previous visitor to India had known. Dr. Radhakrishnan, President of India, who personally came to Bombay to meet Paul VI, said that such meetings “would ultimately result in all people working together, in a spirit of sincerity, reaching their fulfilment as members of one common family of God.” His attitude of humility and magnanimity, his capacity to be one with the Indian people won the hearts of the multitudes.
Paul VI nurtured a special affection for the enormous peoples of India and Asia. He affirmed: “In our memory Bombay will remain the symbol and compendium of the great continent of Asia, with its ancient cultures and traditions, with its immense populations, with its ardent desire for peace…We saw a most worthy humanity, innate with its millenary cultural traditions, not all Christians, but profoundly spiritual, good and kind, ancient and young at the same time…”
Sr. CELINE D’CUNHA FMA
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