Monday, June 2, 2014

Condolences to India

The Holy Father was advised this morning of the death last night of Cardinal Duraisamy Simon Lourdusamy, who formerly served as the Prefect of the Congregation for Oriental Churches.  His Holiness sent a telegram of condolence today to His Excellency, Anthony Anandarayar, Archbishop of Pondicherry and Cuddalore (India).


Telegram of condolence sent by His Holiness, Pope Francis
on the occasion of the death of Cardinal Simon Loudusamy

The Most Reverend Anthony Anandarayar
Archbishop of Pondicherry and Cuddalore

Saddened to learn of the death of Cardinal D. Simon Lourdusamy, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, and Archbishop Emeritus of Bangalore, I offer my deepest condolences and the assurance of my prayers to you, the clergy, religious and lay faithful who mourn his passing. I recall with gratitude to Almighty God the Cardinal’s priestly life spent in spreading the Gospel first in India and subsequently in service to the Universal Church in numerous capacities, finally as Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches. I pray that God the Father of mercies may grant him the reward of his labours and welcome his noble soul into the peace and joy of heaven. To all assembled for the solemn funeral Mass, I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of strength and consolation in the Lord.

Francis

The funeral liturgy for Cardinal Lourdusamy will be celebrated at the Altar of the Chair in Saint Peter's Basilica on Thursday, June 5 beginning at 11:30am local time.  The liturgy will be celebrated by His Eminence Angelo Cardinal Sodano, Dean of the College of Cardinals, along with other Cardinals, Archbishops and Bishops who are present in Rome.

At the conclusion of the Eucharistic celebration, the Holy Father, Pope Francis will preside over the Rite of Final Commendation.

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