Pope’s condolence message on death of Malta’s ex President
(Aug.17,2010) Pope Benedict XVI on Tuesday expressed his prayerful condolences
on hearing of the death of Prof. Guido De Marco, ex-President of Malta. The 79-year-old
president passed away on 12th August due to cardiac problems. The condolence
message sent in the Pope’s name by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarciscio
Bertone, was addressed to Mrs. De Marco and the family. The papal message said,
“His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI recalls with esteem the deceased’s significant contribution,
not only to the domestic affairs of the Maltese Nation, which he served for many years
with great distinction, but to the life of the international community, during his
term of office as President of the General Assembly of the United Nations. Mindful
of the deceased’s clear and constant witness to his faith in Christ in the conduct
of political life, the Holy Father prays that many who serve in public office will
draw inspiration from his example.” The Pope’s message was read during the funeral
rites held Monday evening in St. John's Cathedral in Malta, and the Pope’s Apostolic
blessing was imparted to the De Marco family and to the entire Nation.