(April 19, 2010) Pope Benedict XVI has expressed his condolences on the death of
Cardinal Tomas Spidlik, who died in Rome on Friday. He was 90. The Czech cardinal,
a Jesuit, was a specialist in Eastern theology and spirituality. "The pious demise
of Cardinal Tomas Spidlik, distinguished Jesuit and zealous servant of the Gospel,
has aroused deep commotion in my heart," said a message sent by the Pope on Saturday
to Jesuit Superior General, Father Adolfo Nicolás Pachón. "It is with profound gratitude
that I recall his solid faith, his paternal affability and his intense cultural and
ecclesial labours, especially as an authoritative expert on Eastern Christian spirituality.
The funeral service for the cardinal is scheduled for Tuesday in St. Peter's Basilica.
Benedict XVI will speak at the end of the Mass. The late prelate will be buried in
Velehrad, Check Republic.