VATICAN - Holy Father’s telegram of condolence for the death of Cardinal Umberto Betti

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The Holy Father Benedict XVI sent the following telegram of condolence to Fr. Jose Rodriguez Carballo O.F.M., minister general of the Order of Friars Minor, for the death of Cardinal Umberto Betti O.F.M., who died on the afternoon of April 1 (see Fides 2/4/2009): "It was with great sadness that I learned the news of the death of Cardinal Umberto Betti and, spiritually sharing in the mourning that has struck the Order of Friars Minor, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences. My soul filled with gratitude to the Lord, I recall the ministry that the lamented Cardinal carried out with such zeal, particularly as illustrious theologian, expert of Vatican Council II, esteemed consultor of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and of the Secretariat of State, and rector of the Pontifical Lateran University. Raising fervent prayers for such a worthy servant of the Gospel and invoking divine goodness to grant eternal peace to his soul, I send my special apostolic blessing to comfort his relatives, confreres, and all those mourning his passing.” Benedictus PP. XVI. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 3/4/2009)