Radio Vatican (http://www.radiovaticana.org)
(1) 18/03/2012 13.52.26
Full text: Pope's Message of condolence to Coptic Christians
Below, please find the full text of Vatican Radio's unofficial translation of Pope Benedict XVI's MEssage of condolence for the death of Pope Shenouda III of Alexendria.
***************************
On learning of the sad departure to God, our common Father, of His Holiness Shenouda III, Patriarch of Alexandria on the See of Saint Mark the Evangelist, I wish to express to the members of the Holy Synod, to the priests and all the faithful of all the Patriarchate, my most sincere brotherly compassion. I recall with gratitude his commitment to Christian Unity, his memorable visit to my predecessor Pope Paul VI, and their signing of the Joint Declaration of Faith in the Incarnation of the Son of God together in Rome, on May 10, 1973, as well as his Cairo meeting with Pope John Paul II during the Great Jubilee of the Incarnation, on February24, 2000. I can say how the Catholic Church as a whole shares the grief that afflicts the Orthodox Copts, and how she stands in fervent prayer asking that He, who is who is the Resurrection and the Life, might welcome his faithful servant. May the God of all mercy receive Pope Shenouda in His joy, His peace and light.
(2) 18/03/2012 13.02.46
Catholic Church shares grief of Coptic Christians
Below, please find the text of the remarks of the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, expressing condolences to Coptic Christians for the passing of their spiritual leader, His Holiness, Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria.
************************
The Catholic Church shares in the grief and prayers of Coptic Christians in mourning the loss of their spiritual leader, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria. Pope Benedict XVI was informed of the news and he is united spiritually with prayers of suffrage. We will never forget the meeting of Pope Shenouda in Cairo with Pope John Paul II during his pilgrimage to Mount Sinai during the Great Jubilee. The occasion marked a high moment in dialogue and fellowship witnessing to our common faith in Christ. May the Lord welcome this great shepherd and give him the reward he deserves for his service. - Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, Director of the Holy See Press Office
All the contents on this site are copyrighted ©. Webmaster / Credits / Legal conditions / Advertising
(End)
