Hawzah News Agency- the office of Ayatollah Sistani issued a message of condolence following the passing of Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, the text of which is as follows:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Your Excellency Cardinal Pietro Parolin,

The Honorable Secretary General of the Vatican State

With deep sorrow, we received the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the Pope of the Vatican; a figure who held a high spiritual and moral position among many nations of the world and was highly revered by everyone. He played a prominent role in serving peace, tolerance and solidarity with the oppressed throughout the world.

The historic meeting of the Pope with the Shiite Supreme Authority in Najaf Ashraf was a significant turning point, in which both sides emphasized the fundamental role of faith in God Almighty and divine teachings, as well as adherence to high moral values in overcoming the great challenges facing humanity in this era, as well as the need to intensify efforts to develop a culture of peaceful coexistence, avoid violence and hatred, and strengthen the values of empathy and harmony among humans, based on mutual respect among followers of different religions and ideologies.

The Supreme Religious Authority, while expressing its condolences and sympathy to the followers of the Catholic Church around the world over this painful loss, wishes them patience and peace, and asks Almighty God to bestow blessings and peace on them and on all humanity with His vast mercy.

Office of Grand Ayatollah Sistani - Najaf Ashraf