(July 25, 2011) Pope Benedict XVI has expressed his sorrow at the death of Italian
Cardinal Virgilio Noè, who passed away Sunday morning at the age of 89. In a condolence
message to the late cardinal’s sister Mrs. Maria Noè, the Holy Father remembered the
prelate for his many years as a zealous collaborator of the Holy See, especially in
the Office for the Liturgical Celebrations and as the Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica,
giving a precious witness everywhere of fervent priestly zeal and fidelity to the
Gospel. Cardinal Noè also served as Vicar General of Vatican City and president of
the Fabric of St Peter’s that is incharge of the basilica. The funeral Mass of the
Cardinal is scheduled for Tuesday morning in St. Peter’s Basilica. With the death
of Cardinal Virgilio Noè the number of cardinals worldwide now stands at 195, of whom
114 are below the age of 80 and hence are eligible to vote for a new Pope.