Pope Francis sends telegram after death of Cardinal Antonetti
(VIS) Following is the text of the telegram that the Holy Father Francis has sent
to Bishop Franco Giulio Brambilla of Novara, Italy for the death yesterday at dawn
of Cardinal Lorenzo Antonetti, president emeritus of the Administration of the Patrimony
of the Apostolic See and former delegate to the Patriarchal Basilica of St. Francis
of Assisi. Cardinal Antonetti was 90 years old. “On hearing the sad news of the
death of the venerable Cardinal Lorenzo Antonetti, I wish to express my sentiments
of deep sympathy to this diocesan community, which counted him among its most illustrious
sons, as well as to his nephew Mario, to his other family members and their respective
families, and to all those who knew and esteemed him. I recall the lamented cardinal
who was a zealous collaborator of the Holy See for many years, in particular as a
pontifical representative in various countries, then as president of the Administration
of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See, and finally as delegate to the Patriarchal
Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi: everywhere he was an appreciated witness of priestly
zeal and fidelity to the Gospel. I pray fervently to the Lord Jesus that He, through
the Virgin Mary, may give the late cardinal the eternal reward promised to his faithful
disciples. I send you and all those who share the sorrow of his passing, the comfort
of a special apostolic blessing."