(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis has sent the following telegram of condolence to the
family of Cardinal Domenico Bartolucci, who died today at 96 years of age. He
was a former director of the Sistine Chapel Choir who was created a by Pope Benedict
XVI in the consistory of 20 November 2010.
“Upon receiving the news of the
death of the venerated Cardinal Domenico Bartolucci, I wish to express to the foundation
that bears his name, to his family and his Florentine diocesan community my most heartfelt
condolences. I recall affectionately this dear and highly esteemed priest, an illustrious
composer and musician, who exercised his long and intense ministry, especially through
religious music, born of and expressing faith. I also remember with great gratitude
his fruitful work as director of the Sistine Chapel Choir and his wise … of the precious
gift of polyphony, intended to elevate the heart in praise of God. I raise fervent
prayers to the Lord that, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, He
may welcome his generous servant and distinguished man of the Church in spiritual
joy and eternal peace, and impart the comfort of an apostolic blessing to those who
mourn his loss”.Cardinal Bartolucci's funeral will be celebrated on 13 November at
3.30 p.m. at the altar of the Chair of St. Peter in the Vatican Basilica.
With
his death, the College of Cardinals is now composed as follows: 200 cardinals, of
which 109 are electors.