Pope Sends Condolence Letter to Mourn the Death of Bishop Egger

(August 21, 2008) Pope Benedict XVI in his condolence message has expressed his sympathies and prayers to Mgr Josef Matzneller Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone to mourn the death of Bishop Wilhelm Egger., who passed away on Saturday, 16^th of August. The Pope said that not only their Diocese but also the whole Church has lost much with the death of Bishop Wilhelm Egger who was a great scholar, loving and spiritual person, who tirelessly led people entrusted to him to Christ through his Priestly and Episcopal ministry. Personally to him, the Pope said he was a close friend with whom he had spent his summer time till a few days ago. The Holy Father said that Bishop Egger had a deep knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, which has totally permeated and shaped his life. Indeed he was a great spiritual person. He specially recalled his pastoral letter "Called to follow in love, “ which clearly indicates the relationships between the lives of Christian, religious and Bishop, expressing his generosity and love for the church. Granting his Apostolic Blessing, the Pope said that we pray God great and merciful, to accept this faithful servant in his house and admit to the banquet of eternal joy and happiness.