A Global Call to Prayer for the Ahmedabad Tragedy, India – From Ashes to Hope
On June 12, 2025, a devastating tragedy struck Ahmedabad, India, when Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming 241 lives. The plane, carrying 169 Indians, 53 Britons, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian, struck a residential area, including a medical college hostel, leaving a trail of destruction. Pope Leo XIV, the 267th pontiff, has issued a heartfelt call for global prayer, urging the world to
unite in faith and solidarity to transform ashes into hope.
Pope Leo XIV’s Message of Condolence
In a telegram signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Deeply saddened by the tragedy involving an Air India aircraft near Ahmedabad, His Holiness sends heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives.” He commended the souls of the deceased to “the mercy of the Almighty” and assured prayers for recovery efforts. This message, shared widely on platforms like X, reflects his commitment to compassion and unity.
The Ahmedabad Tragedy: A Heartbreaking Loss
The crash occurred midday, with the plane exploding in a residential area, killing passengers, crew, and at least eight people on the ground, including four medical students. Social media footage showed smoke and debris, with rescue workers rushing to aid the injured. Only one survivor, British national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, was reported, now receiving treatment. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the event “heartbreaking beyond words,” while Archbishop Thomas Macwan of Gandhinagar mourned the loss of local Christians among the victims.
A Global Call to Prayer
Pope Leo XIV, known for his emphasis on peace and Marian devotion, invites Catholics and people of goodwill to join in prayer for:
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Eternal rest for the deceased, including the 241 passengers and ground victims.
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Comfort for grieving families in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada.
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Strength for rescue personnel and medical teams.
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Healing for the injured and the Ahmedabad community.
He encourages praying the Rosary, echoing Our Lady of Fatima’s call for peace, as a powerful means to seek divine grace. On May 13, 2025, he highlighted the Rosary’s role in fostering peace, a message now vital for this tragedy.
From Ashes to Hope
Drawing from his Augustinian roots, Pope Leo XIV envisions hope rising from despair. His papacy, marked by appeals for peace in Ukraine and Gaza, now extends to Ahmedabad. In his first Sunday address on May 11, 2025, he quoted Pope Francis, denouncing a “third world war in pieces” and urging, “Never again war!” This vision of unity inspires his call to transform grief into hope through collective prayer.
How to Join the Prayer Movement
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Pray the Rosary: Dedicate a decade or full Rosary for the victims and their families.
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Attend Mass: Offer intentions for Ahmedabad at local or Vatican Masses, streamed on Vatican News.
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Light a Candle: Symbolize hope by lighting a candle at home or a shrine, as suggested by the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
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Share on X: Use #AhmedabadPrayer to spread Pope Leo XIV’s call, fostering global solidarity.
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Support Relief Efforts: Contribute to verified charities aiding Ahmedabad’s recovery.
Conclusion
Pope Leo XIV’s global call to prayer for the Ahmedabad tragedy unites the world in faith, compassion, and hope. By praying together, we honor the lost, support the grieving, and rebuild a wounded community. Join this movement to turn ashes into hope, reflecting the pontiff’s vision of a united Church. Visit Vatican News or follow @VaticanNews on X for updates and prayer resources.
