Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Fides Service) - The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI expressed his grief for the death of Cardinal Jaime Sin Archbishop emeritus of Manila who died in the early morning of 21 June. In a telegramme of sympathy addressed to Archbishop Gaudencio B. Rosales Archbishop of Manila, the Pope recalled with gratitude “Cardinal Sin's unfailing commitment to the spread of the Gospel and to the promotion of the dignity, common good and national unity of the Philippine people”. Expressing heartfelt condolences to the Archbishop and to all the clergy, religious and laity of the archdiocese of Manila, Benedict XVI said “I join you in praying that God our merciful Father will grant him the reward of his labors and welcome his noble soul into the joy and peace of His eternal Kingdom. To all assembled for the solemn Mass of Christian burial I cordially impart my apostolic blessing as a pledge of consolation and strength in the Lord."
The Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe and the Secretary Archbishop Robert Sarah, also sent a telegramme of condolence to Archbishop Rosales expressing sincere sympathy on behalf of the whole Congregation for the death of Cardinal Sin and “assuring prayers for the repose of his soul”. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 22/6/2005, righe 13, parole 182)
