Pope mourns death of Zambian Cardinal Medardo Joseph Mazombwe

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis on Friday sent a telegram to Archbishop Telesphore George Mpundu of Lusaka, Zambia, on the occasion of the death of Cardinal Medardo Joseph Mazombwe.

In his telegram, the Holy Father praised Cardinal Mazombwe’s “unfailing commitment to the spread of the Gospel in Africa and his tireless efforts on behalf of the poor.”

Cardinal Mazombwe died Thursday night after a long battle with cancer. He was Zambia’s first cardinal.

Below, please find the complete text of the Holy Father’s telegram:

I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Cardinal Medardo Joseph Mazombwe, Archbishop Emeritus of Lusaka. I offer to you, the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Archdiocese my heartfelt condolences and the assurance of my prayers. With gratitude to Almighty God, I recall his unfailing commitment to the spread of the Gospel in Africa and his tireless efforts on behalf of the poor. I join you and all who mourn Cardinal Mazombwe in praying 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.
Franciscus PP.