India’s Catholic Church acclaims Mandela

December 10, 2013 - The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has praised former South African president, Nelson Mandela, who passed away Dec. 5, saying in him “the world has lost one of our finest human beings and tallest leaders.” In a condolence message signed by CBCI president, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, the Catholic Church of India noted that the anti-apartheid icon of South Africa, had unified his country, steered it away from bloodshed and conflict and led his country from racial apartheid to equal dignity for all. His life was the epitome of sacrifice, dedication and determination. Even after 27 years of imprisonment, he never harboured any ill feeling of hatred or vindictiveness towards those responsible for this long period of unjust detention. He taught the world the meaning, value and effectiveness of forgiveness and reconciliation, the Indian bishops added. (Source: CBCI)