site.btaUPDATED Pope Francis Changed World, Filled People's Hearts with Unshakable Faith in God, Kindness, Forgiveness - Parliament Chair Kiselova

National Assembly Chair Nataliya Kiselova cabled her condolences on the passing of Pope Francis on Monday. “Pope Francis was a holy man who changed the world and filled our hearts and souls with unshakeable faith in God, kindness and forgiveness,” she said as quoted by the National Assembly’s press centre. 

“Bulgaria will always remember Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit in May 2019, during which he delivered the message: ‘Let there be peace on earth to all those whom the Lord loves’,” Kiselova said.

“The Bishop of Rome, Francis, advocated for peace among religions around the world and left behind a legacy of striving for understanding, love between people and compassion for those who suffer,” the Parliament Chair added. “May his prayers guide us toward spiritual humility and mutual respect,” Kiselova said.

The Chair of the National Assembly expresses her condolences to “the Catholic community and all people around the world who have honoured His Holiness Pope Francis, a champion of peace and humanity.

Speaking to reporters in Bosilegrad where she attended the 32nd International Children's Easter Festival, Kiselova said: "A person passing away on a holy day like Easter must be one of the saddest moments for their family". 

"It is sad that the head of the Roman Catholic Church presented himself before God on the second day of Easter," Kiselova noted, adding that it is also a time to reflect on what he did for the Catholic Church and his efforts for peace and recognize that this work must be continued. 

The Vatican announced Pope Francis’s passing via a video message earlier in the day.