Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 21 (Reporter) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condoled the demise of Pope Francis (88) who passed at his residence in Casa Santa Marta on Monday. Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, inclusivity, and a profound commitment to social justice, the CM said in a message. His papacy was characterized by significant outreach to marginalized communities, interfaith dialogue, and a critical stance on global capitalism. Pope Francis was an ardent advocate for the poor and the marginalized. He frequently emphasized the church's mission to serve those "discarded" by society, including the homeless and impoverished populations. His experiences in Buenos Aires shaped his understanding of poverty, leading him to declare that "the globalization of indifference" must be countered with active compassion for the needy. His commitment to LGBTQ+ rights evolved during his papacy, as he sought to foster a more inclusive church. He famously stated that "everyone has dignity," regardless of their sexual orientation. This message resonated with many who felt alienated by traditional church teachings. Pope Francis also championed the rights of Palestinians, often expressing solidarity with their plight. He highlighted the sufferings of the people there, advocating for peace and mutual understanding in the region. His interfaith efforts included historic meetings with leaders of various religions, reinforcing his belief that dialogue is essential for peace. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis prioritized interreligious dialogue as a means to foster peace. He believed that cooperation among different faiths was crucial in addressing global conflicts and promoting social harmony. His meetings with leaders from Islam, Judaism, and other faiths exemplified his commitment to building bridges between communities. His visits to UAE and Iraq and the statements issued in connection with them, were historic. He often called for a collective effort to tackle pressing global issues such as poverty, environmental degradation and climate change, emphasizing that these concerns transcend religious boundaries. He famously stated that "interreligious dialogue is a necessary condition for peace. Pope Francis was unflinching in his critique of capitalism, which he viewed as a system that perpetuates inequality and marginalizes the poor. He described an economy of exclusion as one that "kills," urging a reevaluation of economic priorities to prioritize human dignity over profit. His encyclicals often addressed the need for structural changes in economic systems to create a more equitable society. Pope Francis's legacy is one of profound empathy and action towards creating a more just world. His outreach to diverse communities, commitment to interfaith dialogue, and critique of capitalism will continue to inspire future generations in their pursuit of peace and social justice, he added...////...