10 Assam priests pay last respects to Pope at Vatican

Guwahati: A contingent of 10 priests from Assam, alongside millions of mourners, gathered at Vatican City on Saturday to pay their respects at Pope Francis's funeral service. The Pope was interred at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome.
According to Father John Paul, Procurator of the Archdiocese of Guwahati, the Assamese priests arrived at Vatican City on Sunday during their pilgrimage tour. They were joined by a group of priests from Meghalaya who were also on the spiritual journey. "The incident was entirely unforeseen, and the priests came to know about the unfortunate news of the Pope's demise while they were already in the city. However, they went to the chapel where the mortal remains of the pope Francis was placed and offend prayers," Father Paul stated.
He further specified that amongst the 10 priests, nine were from Guwahati city in Kamrup (Metro), whilst one hailed from Bongaigaon district.
The North Eastern Regional Bishops' Council (NERBC), in collaboration with Assam Christian Forum, CRI, and Archdiocese of Guwahati, supported by St Joseph's Co-Cathedral Parish and the Catholic community, conducted a memorial service celebrating the Pope's lasting influence. The service featured prayers, hymns and contemplations about Pope Francis's dedication to the Church and humanity.
The service, conducted at Don Bosco school in the Panbazar area, witnessed attendance from numerous bishops, priests, religious sisters and local citizen groups. The gathering demonstrated profound respect as they united to honour the Pope's memory.
Allen Brooks, speaking as the spokesperson of Assam Christian Forum, said, "The Pope was a beacon of hope and love, not just for catholics but for people of all faiths. His teachings will continue to inspire us to walk the path of humility and service."